Taiwo Awoniyi scored his first goal in over a year to secure a 2-0 win for Nottingham Forest against Brentford. The striker’s powerful solo effort capped a personal comeback from a life-threatening abdominal injury. The victory gives Forest crucial breathing room in their Premier League relegation battle.
Awoniyi entered the match as a second-half substitute. He received the ball near the halfway line in the 79th minute. The Nigerian then drove past defender Sepp van den Berg before slotting the ball home. His goal ensured three vital away points for Forest.
The strike ended a 384-day goal drought for the 28-year-old forward. His last Premier League goal came in January 2025. A serious collision with a goalpost in May 2025 caused a ruptured intestine. Awoniyi required an induced coma and urgent surgery during his recovery.
Awoniyi dedicated his goal to his faith and family. “The only thing that has kept me going is the man up there,” Awoniyi told BBC Radio Nottingham. He also affirmed his self-belief after a difficult period. “I’ve always believed I’m a Premier League player,” he stated.
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Forest manager Sean Dyche expressed delight for his striker. Dyche advised Awoniyi to “just be free” before the match. The manager noted the positive impact of new squad competition on existing players.
The result lifts Nottingham Forest to 17th in the Premier League table. It creates a five-point gap over the relegation zone. Brentford suffered only its second home defeat of the season.
