Super Eagles explain Ola Aina bench absence after 3-0 loss to Guinea-Bissau
Nigeria's Super Eagles lost 3-0 to Guinea-Bissau in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at Stade du 24 Septembre in Bissau. Media officer Promise Efoghe said Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina stayed on the bench due to fitness worries and concerns about the poor pitch condition, noting the surface reminded him of the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein where he suffered a long-term injury during a 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa. Bright Osayi-Samuel started at right-back but struggled to contain Guinea-Bissau captain Mama Baldé, whose pace and technical play troubled Nigeria’s defence. Efoghe also urged African football authorities to improve playing standards, warning that sub‑safe pitches hinder the sport’s growth on the continent. The Super Eagles will look to rebound in an international friendly against Russia scheduled for October 6, 2026. Will the Eagles’ focus on fitness and pitch quality translate into a stronger performance against Russia, or will deeper issues persist?