Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest full-back Ola Aina has revealed the toughest Nigerian player he’s had to face, naming FC Nantes winger Moses Simon as his most challenging opponent.
Known for his rapid pace and agility, Simon has left a lasting impression on Aina, who’s been a fixture in the national team since his 2017 debut.
The 28-year-old defender, who has represented Nigeria for nearly eight years, first debuted in 2017 and has often played alongside Simon for the national team.
Simon’s speed gives Aina and other full-backs fits
In a recent appearance on the Counter Attack Podcast, Aina didn’t hesitate when asked about his hardest one-on-one matchup.
“To defend against, probably Moses Simon,” Aina said.
“I wouldn’t say he’s unpredictable because you sort of know what he’s going to do, but his sharpness makes him really difficult to deal with. He’s so sharp off the mark.”
Super Eagles winger Simon has proven himself among the fastest in Ligue 1, reaching a peak speed of 35.95 km/h last season—outrunning Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé.
The former Levante forward has been crucial for Nantes this season, scoring two goals and providing three assists in just eight league games.
Not one to shy away from speed challenges, Aina, known for his acceleration, outpaced Manchester City’s Kyle Walker in a recent Premier League encounter.
The Chelsea Academy graduate debuted for Nigeria at 20 in a World Cup qualifier against Zambia and has since built a steady career with 40 caps, representing his country in the 2019 and 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
