Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi is currently in an induced coma after undergoing emergency surgery following a horrifying collision in Sunday’s 2-2 Premier League draw against Leicester City.
The Nigerian forward sustained a serious abdominal injury in the 88th minute while chasing a cross from Anthony Elanga.
Awoniyi, who had just come on as a late substitute for Ibrahim Sangare, slammed into the goalpost in a desperate attempt to convert the cross.
Although Elanga was later flagged offside, the assistant referee delayed raising the flag due to protocol that requires play to continue in case of a potential goal-scoring opportunity.
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Following the incident, Awoniyi received extended treatment on the pitch before being rushed to the hospital. As confirmed by Forest, he had the first phase of his surgery on Monday night. He is expected to complete the procedure on Wednesday.
Thankfully, the club added that he is “recovering well” despite the serious nature of his injury.
Meanwhile, the club’s statement on Tuesday emphasised their deep concern and commitment to player welfare. Forest stated that such incidents are stark reminders of football’s physical dangers and the importance of prioritising health over competition.
Moreover, they stressed that this belief is not just part of club policy but a philosophy driven by the club’s owner, Evangelos Marinakis.
“To him, this isn’t just a football club — it’s family,” the statement read.
While the football world awaits further updates, fans and teammates continue to rally around the 27-year-old Nigerian international, hoping for a speedy and complete recovery.
Tags: Taiwo Awoniyi, induced coma, surgery, Super Eagles, Nottingham Forest, Leicester City, Premier League, #EPL, Evangelos Marinakis, Ibrahim Sangare, Anthony Elanga.
