AFCON Qualifiers: Nigeria gets Ola Aina’s boost for Benin Republic, Rwanda ties

By Wale Mustapha

Nigeria have received a significant boost for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda with the return of experienced right-back Ola Aina.

Aina had been sidelined with an ankle injury sustained while playing for Nottingham Forest last weekend, where he was forced to leave the field at halftime and replaced by Harry Toffolo.

However, he made a swift recovery and played the full match in Nottingham Forest’s 1-0 victory over Southampton on Saturday, delivering a strong performance.

Aina’s return to full fitness is a welcome development for the Super Eagles, and he is expected to be included in the squad for the crucial qualifiers.

Nigeria will host Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday, September 7, with a subsequent clash against Rwanda on September 10.