Nigeria international Ola Aina has been named in WhoScored's Premier League Team of the Week following his standout display for Nottingham Forest in their 3-1 victory over Brentford, Soccernet.ng reports.
The right-back, who played with confidence and authority, delivered one of the finest individual performances of the opening weekend.
Ola Aina's efforts earned him a 7.73 rating on respected statistical platform WhoScored, the highest among defenders in his position.
Aina’s defensive awareness was critical as Forest resisted Brentford’s second-half response. He completed seven clearances, won eight of 15 duels, and made three important tackles. Notably, the 27-year-old was never dribbled past throughout the 90 minutes, with his discipline in one-on-one situations proving valuable.
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On the ball, the Super Eagles star, who almost left Forest for Tottenham, was equally impressive. He registered 75 touches, attempted 32 passes with an accuracy rate of 91 per cent, and showed attacking intent with two dribble attempts, one of which was successful.
Forest built their victory on a commanding first-half display, with Chris Wood scoring twice while Dan Ndoye added a third. Igor Thiago reduced the deficit for Brentford from the penalty spot after the restart, but the Reds held on comfortably, thanks in part to Aina’s composure and consistency at the back.
The Nigerian was not the only Forest player recognised in the league’s best XI. Wood’s clinical finishing also earned him a place alongside Aina.
Elsewhere in the Team of the Week, Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya took top honours between the posts after his superb performance in the Gunners’ narrow 1-0 win away at Manchester United. Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, Sunderland’s Daniel Ballard, and Leeds United’s Gudmundsson completed the back line.
In midfield, Ghana’s Mohammed Kudus was rewarded for his dazzling display in Tottenham’s emphatic home win over Burnley. He was joined by teammates Richarlison and Pape Matar Sarr, as well as Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo and Manchester City’s Nico González.
The attack paired Richarlison with Wood, after both players displayed clinical edge in front of goal.
Ola Aina will now aim to replicate his excellent form when Nottingham Forest face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park this coming Sunday.
