Taiwo Awoniyi Rushed To Hospital For Emergency Surgery After Horror Collision
Nottingham Forest and Nigeria international striker, Taiwo Awoniyi, has been rushed to hospital for emergency surgery following a horror collision during his side’s 2–2 draw with Leicester City on Sunday.
The 26-year-old forward suffered an abdominal injury after colliding with the goalpost at the City Ground, while attempting to convert a low cross from Anthony Elanga in the first half.
Despite receiving lengthy medical attention on the pitch, Awoniyi tried to continue playing, only to be later substituted.
However, fresh reports on Monday confirmed that scans revealed a more serious internal injury, prompting immediate surgical intervention.
Though the surgery is said to have gone well, the injury is expected to sideline the Super Eagles striker for an extended period, dealing a major blow to both club and country.
The incident sparked drama at the final whistle, as Forest’s billionaire owner, Evangelos Marinakis, stormed onto the pitch and confronted manager Nuno Espírito Santo.
Eyewitnesses say the Greek businessman was furious over Awoniyi being left on the pitch after the collision, despite the club’s medical team giving the green light.
“He was clearly concerned for the player’s wellbeing. The owner felt the situation could have been better managed, ” a source said.
The injury came on a day when Forest’s Champions League hopes took a serious hit, as the draw against already-relegated Leicester leaves Nuno’s men one point adrift of the top five, with just two games remaining — against West Ham and Chelsea.
Forest currently sit seventh, which secures at least a place in the UEFA Conference League — their first European appearance since 1995–96. But fans and management had set their sights higher.
For Awoniyi, the injury comes at a crucial point in the season, and it is unclear whether he will be fit in time for Nigeria’s upcoming international fixtures.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
