AFCON 2025: Nigeria defender Ola Aina finally ruled out of tournament

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will have to battle for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title without influential defender Ola Aina due to injury setback.

The 29-year-old right-back, who has been out of action since September has finally been ruled out of the tournament to be staged in Morocco between December 2025 and January 2026.

Ola Aina picked up the injury setback, while in action for the Super Eagles in a World Cup qualifier against South Africa, where both teams shared the spoils.

Despite making good progress in his recovery, Nottingham Forest head coach Sean Dyche has confirmed Ola Aina can feature for the club until January, ruling him out of the impending tournament.

“It’s better news… Not everyone is quite fit yet, but a few are back on the grass… Ola is getting closer to fitness, but obviously can’t be with us until January.” He said.

Since the setback, the enterprising full-back has missed a combined 18 matches for club and country.

The Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle will soon announce Nigeria’s AFCON squad, with the team set to face Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda in Group C.

Ola Aina has been limited to only three appearances across competitions for Nottingham Forest due to the setback.

Since making his debut for Nigeria in 2017, the full-back has racked up 48 appearances for the Super Eagles but he is yet to score or register an assist.