NIGERIA: Aina’s Performance Seals Forest’s Thrilling Win Over Southampton

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria  

Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina delivered a standout performance on Sunday, earning praise from manager Nuno Espirito Santo after his last-minute goal-line clearance ensured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Southampton at the City Ground.

Aina, who also provided a pinpoint assist for Chris Wood’s goal in the first half, played a pivotal role in preserving Forest’s hard-fought win.

With Southampton surging in stoppage time, the Nigerian international denied Jan Bednarek’s potential equalizer, a moment that left the home crowd roaring with relief.

Forest boss Nuno highlighted Aina’s composure and focus in critical moments, noting his consistency in high-pressure situations. “He did something similar against Liverpool. It’s part of his responsibility, but we must address these lapses during set pieces. The league is unforgiving, and every detail matters,”Nuno said post-match.

The match had started brightly for Forest, who stormed to a 3-0 lead in the first half with goals from Elliot Anderson, Callum Hudson-Odoi, and Chris Wood.

However, Southampton refused to go down without a fight. Jan Bednarek and Nigerian forward Paul Onuachu struck in the second half, the latter marking his first goal for the Saints, setting up a nervy finale.

Aina’s defensive heroics drew parallels to his intervention against Mohamed Salah in Forest’s recent 1-1 draw with Liverpool.

Reflecting on the team’s resilience, Aina humorously took to social media, saying, “Our bom boms almost went, fak, 3+ doe,” expressing relief after surviving Southampton’s late pressure.

The victory extended Forest’s unbeaten run in the Premier League to eight games, their best streak since November 1995.

The team now sits third on the table, level on points with second-placed Arsenal, a testament to their remarkable season so far.

Speaking on the team’s performance, Aina emphasized the importance of unity and hard work. He said, “We’re showing what we can do on the pitch, and to be competing with the big boys is a massive credit to everyone here. It’s about staying humble, taking it step-by-step, and continuing to give our all in every game.”

With 44 points from 22 games, Forest is enjoying one of their best starts to a top-flight season since their historic 1977/78 campaign.

The team now looks ahead to a challenging trip to Bournemouth on Saturday, aiming to maintain their impressive form.