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Semenyo lists Super Eagles star among Premier League’s toughest

Posted : 12 March 2025

Ghanaian forward Antoine Semenyo has identified Nigerian international Ola Aina as one of the toughest defenders he has faced in the English Premier League this season. The AFC Bournemouth attacker, in a conversation with Bleacher Report via Ghanasoccernet, highlighted the Super Eagles star’s defensive prowess alongside other formidable opponents.


In his assessment of the league’s most challenging defenders, Semenyo also named Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk and Tottenham Hotspur’s Destiny Udogie. He acknowledged their strength and resilience, emphasizing how difficult it was to play against them throughout the campaign.


"Van Dijk was tough when we faced Liverpool both home and away. Udogie, as well, is a strong opponent. Ola Aina is also up there. I would say those three," Semenyo remarked.


Aina’s defensive contributions have been outstanding this season, with the Nottingham Forest full-back excelling in ball recovery. His ability to win possession in the defensive third has surpassed every other player across Europe’s top five leagues, cementing his reputation as a defensive stalwart.


At 28 years old, Aina has played a crucial role for Nottingham Forest, featuring extensively in their defensive setup. His consistent performances have made him a key figure in the squad, earning him recognition as one of the league’s most reliable defenders.


Statistically, Aina leads all players in Europe’s top five leagues in defensive third ball recoveries, with 105 to his name. His presence in the backline has contributed significantly to Nottingham Forest’s defensive solidity, including helping goalkeeper Matz Sels achieve 12 clean sheets this season. His recent display against Manchester City further demonstrated his effectiveness, as he made key defensive interventions that influenced the outcome of the game.


Aina’s impressive form has earned him a call-up to Nigeria’s national squad, where he is expected to feature in upcoming fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe later this month.

 

 

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