AFCON 2025: Alex Iwobi Reveals Player Super Eagles Have Truly Missed in Morocco

Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has identified one absence that has been keenly felt in the Super Eagles camp at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Iwobi acknowledged that the unavailability of Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina has had an impact on the Nigerian national team, PulseNets learnt.

However, the former Arsenal star was quick to credit the performances of right-backs Bright Osayi-Samuel and Ryan Alebiosu, noting that both players have stepped up admirably in Aina’s absence.

PulseNets reported that Aina was initially named in the Super Eagles’ provisional squad for the tournament but failed to make the final list due to concerns surrounding his fitness levels at the time.

The Nottingham Forest defender has since returned to full fitness and featured in his club’s last two Premier League fixtures, following a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

PulseNets obtained that Aina had been out of action for over three months after sustaining a hamstring injury early in Nigeria’s 1–1 draw with South Africa during a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match.

The defender was widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Speaking during Friday’s pre-match press conference, Iwobi was asked whether the Super Eagles have missed Aina’s presence. He told PulseNets:

“When it comes to Ola Aina, he’s definitely a big miss.
He’s a very important figure, both on and off the pitch, and we all know the quality and experience he brings to the team.

That said, our right-backs — Bright and Ryan — have done an excellent job, so in a way, it doesn’t feel like his absence has hurt us too much.

Ola is a top player, but Bright has also been fantastic, and Ryan as well. We’re blessed with strong right-backs and solid defenders, which gives Nigeria a big advantage.

Even when one player is missing, we still have quality players who can cover multiple positions effectively.

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Ola Aina is one of my closest friends in football, so personally, I do miss him. He’s been checking in, sending messages, and staying in touch with us.

The most important thing now is that he’s fully recovered and back playing for his club. He keeps encouraging us and wishing us well, so while he’s not here physically, he’s still very much with us in spirit.”