Nigeria’s Ola Aina Shines in Forest’s Historic Win Over Liverpool

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

Nottingham Forest Nigerian defender Ola Aina has been named in the Premier League Team of the Week following his outstanding performance in their shock 1-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield.

Aina played a pivotal role in Forest’s defense, helping the team secure their first league win at Anfield in 55 years.

His composed and disciplined display caught the attention of Premier League legend Alan Shearer, who included him in his select XI for Game Week.

“Part of a fine defensive display from Forest, Aina kept the in-form Luis Diaz quiet, which is no mean feat,” Shearer said, praising the Nigerian international’s efforts.

The former Chelsea academy player completed the full 90 minutes and was instrumental in shutting down Liverpool’s attack. Aina’s most significant contribution came when he cleared a goal-bound shot from Diaz in the first half, preserving Forest’s clean sheet.

Aina’s inclusion in the Team of the Week highlights the effectiveness of manager Nuno Espirito Santo’s game plan.

The Portuguese coach employed a low defensive block and relied on counterattacks, a strategy that paid off when substitute Callum Hudson-Odoi scored the winning goal.

Forest’s stunning victory saw two other defenders, Murillo and Alex Moreno, join Aina in Shearer’s team. Midfielder Elliot Anderson and coach Nuno Espirito Santo also earned spots in a team featuring players from seven different clubs.

Other notable inclusions in the Team of the Week were Chelsea’s goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, for his penalty save against AFC Bournemouth, Manchester United’s Matthijs de Ligt, for his goal-scoring display against Southampton, and Arsenal’s Gabriel for his commanding defensive performance.

Up front, Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta, Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins were recognized for their attacking contributions.