‘Na God sustain me’ – Aina admits Brentford test drained him
Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina has described his side’s 2-0 Premier League win away at Brentford as one of the most physically demanding matches he has played, after Forest boosted their survival hopes with a resilient display at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Forest secured all three points through goals from Igor Jesus and Taiwo Awoniyi, a result that moved them five points clear of the relegation zone and provided a significant lift in their fight to remain in the top flight.
Forest withstand Brentford pressure
Although Forest left London with a clean sheet and maximum points, the match was largely controlled by Brentford, who dominated possession and territory for long spells.
The hosts finished the game with 67 percent of the ball and completed 540 passes, compared to Forest’s 304, but struggled to turn that control into clear-cut chances.
Forest, by contrast, were efficient and disciplined. Igor Jesus opened the scoring in the first half before Taiwo Awoniyi sealed the win late on with a counter-attacking goal.
Defensively, Forest were stretched for much of the game, registering 56 clearances and three blocks as they absorbed sustained pressure.
Aina featured for the full 90 minutes at right-back and played a key role in Forest’s defensive organisation, as the visitors recorded back-to-back Premier League clean sheets.
‘I’ve never felt so exhausted’ – Aina
After the match, Aina reflected on the physical toll of the encounter, admitting the intensity of playing Brentford away consistently pushes him to his limits.
“Na only God sustain me for this match. I’ve never felt so exhausted in my life,” Aina wrote on Snapchat. “It’s always like this against Brentford as well. Big three points sha.”
The Nigeria international recently returned from a lengthy injury layoff and has quickly re-established himself as a regular starter.
His performance against Brentford underlined his importance as Forest look to build momentum in the closing stages of the season.
