Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi made an encouraging start to the 2026/27 campaign by getting on the scoresheet as Nottingham Forest defeated Blackburn Rovers in a pre-season friendly.
The 28-year-old Super Eagles forward was introduced at half-time and wasted little time making an impact, finding the back of the net to put Forest ahead. Awoniyi also wore the captain’s armband during the second half, underlining his growing leadership role within the squad.
The goal continues the striker’s positive resurgence after an injury-disrupted 2025/26 season. Awoniyi battled back from serious health concerns, including a period in an induced coma in 2025, before returning to help Forest secure Premier League survival with crucial late-season performances.
The pre-season friendly offered another glimpse of the Nigerian’s sharpness as Forest step up preparations for the new Premier League campaign. Images from the match showed Awoniyi actively leading the attack and communicating with teammates, highlighting his importance both on and off the pitch.
Since arriving from Union Berlin in 2022, Awoniyi has grown into one of Nottingham Forest’s most influential players. Earlier this year, he reaffirmed his commitment to the club, describing Nottingham as “home” for himself and his family.
For Super Eagles supporters, Awoniyi’s early-season form is another encouraging sign as Nigeria prepares for upcoming international fixtures. With several more pre-season matches to come, the striker will be aiming to build momentum and cement his place as Forest’s first-choice centre-forward heading into the new season.
