There could be Nigerian representation on both sides when Nottingham Forest host FC Porto in the second leg of their UEFA Europa League quarter final at the City Ground on Thursday.
Defender Ola Aina is the only Super Eagles player in the Forest squad and is expected to be involved as the Premier League side aim to progress from a tightly balanced tie.
On the opposing side, compatriots Terem Moffi and Zaidu Sanusi will be hoping to help Porto secure qualification after the first leg ended 1 1 in Portugal.
Forest come into the match battling both European pressure and a relegation fight in the Premier League. Their recent 1 1 draw with Aston Villa slightly eased their domestic worries but their home form in Europe remains a concern, having lost three consecutive European knockout matches at the City Ground.
The English club have managed just one win in their last 11 home matches in all competitions, a record that adds pressure ahead of the decisive fixture.
Porto, however, arrive in strong form after extending their unbeaten run across all competitions. The Portuguese side have also won their last three away games, boosting confidence ahead of the trip to England.
Despite their momentum, Porto’s history in second leg European ties is less convincing, which could give Forest encouragement heading into the match.
Forest did defeat Porto 2 0 earlier this season at the City Ground during the league phase, a result that adds another layer of intrigue to the encounter.
Moffi will be looking to make an impact after a mixed reception from some Porto supporters in the first leg while Sanusi continues to play a steady role in the team’s European campaign.
Aina, who has made six Europa League appearances this season, will hope to feature as Forest aim to overturn Porto’s challenge and keep their European journey alive.
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