Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina has earned a well-deserved spot in the FA Cup Team of the Round, following his exceptional performance during Forest's thrilling quarter-final clash against Brighton & Hove Albion. Aina’s impressive display helped secure a hard-fought 4-3 penalty shootout victory after the match ended in a 1-1 draw after extra time.

Aina, who played the full 120 minutes, was a key figure in Forest’s defensive setup, constantly dealing with Brighton's attacks. The Super Eagles full-back was instrumental in the team’s efforts to keep the opposition at bay, recording a total of five clearances and seven recoveries, while also winning eight ground duels throughout the match. His defensive contributions were crucial in maintaining the balance of the game, particularly when Brighton pressed for a late winner during extra time.

In addition to his strong defensive showing, Aina also proved to be a significant presence going forward. He completed the most dribbles (five) in the match, demonstrating his ability to contribute to the team both defensively and offensively. His versatility and energy were on full display as he provided much-needed support in attack while still staying composed in defense. His performance was widely praised, and many fans and pundits highlighted his all-around contribution to Forest's progression in the competition.

Aina’s solid performance alongside his defensive partner Nikola Milenkovic, who also earned a place in the Team of the Round, helped ensure that Nottingham Forest held their own against Brighton in what was a high-intensity encounter. The pair’s resilience and tactical awareness were essential in the tense penalty shootout that followed the draw after extra time.

Looking ahead, Nottingham Forest is now set to prepare for a semi-final showdown against Manchester City next month. With Aina’s continued solid form and Forest’s strong performance in the quarter-final, fans are hopeful that their team can push further in the FA Cup competition as they aim to challenge one of the top teams in English football.