Super Eagles full-back Ola Aina is targeting victory in Nottingham Forest’s crucial Premier League clash with Chelsea as the club chases its first UEFA Champions League appearance in over four decades.
Aina, who has featured in 34 matches this season, contributing two goals and an assist, is one of Forest’s standout performers. The team has enjoyed a strong season under Nuno Espirito Santo, maintaining a place in the league’s top five for much of the campaign. However, a recent dip in form means they must now beat Chelsea and hope that either Aston Villa or Newcastle slip up to secure a coveted Champions League spot.
The two-time European champions last competed in the continent’s premier club competition during the 1980/81 season. While the Champions League remains the dream, a place in one of UEFA’s continental competitions is guaranteed, with the UEFA Europa Conference League currently the minimum they can achieve.
Forest’s journey back to prominence has been long and winding, but Sunday offers a golden opportunity to cap off the season with one of the club’s most significant achievements in recent history.
Editorial
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There’s something magical about a team clawing its way back to the top. Nottingham Forest, a club with a rich European legacy, is knocking again on the doors of continental greatness. But make no mistake, the path has been anything but easy.
Sunday’s showdown against Chelsea is more than a match it’s a statement. It’s about redemption, validation, and ambition. This is a team that once reigned in Europe, only to fall into obscurity for years. Now, they’re just one result and a bit of luck—away from reclaiming a place among Europe’s elite.
Ola Aina embodies this resurgence. His consistent displays, punctuated by attacking contributions and defensive grit, have been crucial to Forest’s campaign. And while he may be facing his former club in Chelsea, loyalty this weekend lies firmly with the badge he currently wears.
Forest fans have every right to dream. This club’s revival under Nuno has blended tactical innovation with old-school grit. But dreams need to be earned. Chelsea won’t offer gifts, and Forest must show hunger from the first whistle,
The outcome may also depend on results elsewhere, but Forest must focus on controlling the controllables. If they fall short of the Champions League, securing a European return in any capacity is still a victory worth savouring. Yet we believe the fight for the biggest stage is far from over and if anyone deserves that final push, it’s this fearless Forest side.
Did You Know?
- Nottingham Forest won back-to-back European Cups in 1979 and 1980 under legendary manager Brian Clough.
- Ola Aina came through Chelsea’s youth system but made only a handful of senior appearances before leaving permanently.
- Forest’s City Ground is one of the oldest football stadiums in the world, opened in 1898.
- Nuno Espirito Santo previously led Wolves to European qualification after a long absence, mirroring his Forest mission.
- The last time Forest finished in England’s top four was the 1994/95 season, led by a young Stan Collymore.
