Taiwo Awoniyi delivered a standout performance on his 100th appearance for Nottingham Forest, scoring twice in a stunning 3-1 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Monday night.
The result deepens Chelsea’s struggles in the Premier League, extending their losing streak to six matches, their worst run in over a century, while lifting Forest six points clear of the relegation zone.
Dream Start for Forest
Forest made a blistering start, taking the lead after just 98 seconds. Dilane Bakwa surged past Marc Cucurella on the right and delivered a pinpoint cross, which Awoniyi powered home with a clinical header at the back post.
The visitors doubled their advantage in the 15th minute after Awoniyi was brought down in the box by Malo Gusto. Following a VAR check, Igor Jesus calmly converted the resulting penalty.
Chelsea Struggles to Respond
Chelsea, now under interim manager Calum McFarlane after the departure of Liam Rosenior, struggled to find rhythm. Cole Palmer had a chance to reduce the deficit before halftime but saw his penalty saved by Matz Sels.
Awoniyi Seals the Victory
The Nigerian striker struck again early in the second half. Substitute Morgan Gibbs-White delivered a low cross into the box, and Awoniyi was perfectly positioned to tap home his second goal of the night, his third Premier League brace.
Chelsea grabbed a late consolation through João Pedro, who scored with an overhead kick in stoppage time, but it did little to change the outcome.
Big Win for Forest
Awoniyi was deservedly named Man of the Match, contributing two goals, winning a penalty, and leading the line with authority. The victory also marked Forest’s fourth consecutive unbeaten visit to Stamford Bridge.
Speaking after the match, Awoniyi emphasized the importance of the result:
“This win is massive for us; we are almost there now.”
Survival Within Reach
The win puts Forest in a strong position to secure their top-flight status, allowing them to shift focus toward their European commitments under manager Vítor Pereira.
For Chelsea, however, the crisis deepens, with mounting pressure as their season continues to unravel.
