Is Taiwo Awoniyi Facing Life Threatening Injury? Here’s The Update On Nottingham Forest Striker's Injury After Goalpost Collision

Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi underwent emergency Surgery Following an on-field Incident. According to BBC report, Awoniyi has been placed in a medically induced coma following abdominal surgery after a terrifying collision with the goalpost during his side’s 2-2 draw against Leicester City on Sunday. The full extent of Awoniyi’s injuries only became clear after the match.

He underwent abdominal surgery on Monday, after which doctors decided to place him in a medically induced coma. According to The Guardian, the coma was used to restrict his movement and regulate his heart rate not because the injury is life-threatening. A second surgery is scheduled for Wednesday, and while he is expected to recover, the timeline for his return to football remains uncertain.

Details about the incident

The 27-year-old Nigerian international collided with the post in the 88th minute at the City Ground while attempting to convert a cross. Both Awoniyi and Leicester's Facundo Buonanotte crashed into the post with Awoniyi’s abdomen taking the brunt of the impact.

Although both players managed to get up and continued playing, Awoniyi appeared visibly uncomfortable in the final minutes. He was seen doubling over in pain and struggling to move, effectively reducing Forest to 10 men after the team had already used all its substitutions.

Manager Nuno Espirito Santo made his final substitution immediately after the incident, replacing Elliot Anderson with Jota Silva in stoppage time. However, Awoniyi's deteriorating condition on the pitch sparked confusion and reportedly led to a heated exchange between Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis and the manager. Though the club has since downplayed any fallout, the visuals pointed to tensions on the touchline as frustration mounted over the decision to keep Awoniyi on the field.

In an official statement, Nottingham Forest reinforced their commitment to player welfare:“The seriousness of his injury is a powerful reminder of the physical risks in the game, and why a player’s health and well-being must always come first. At Nottingham Forest, this principle is not just policy — it is a deeply held belief and conviction of our owner.”

Awoniyi’s Season and Forest's Final Push for European football

Awoniyi is currently in his third season with Nottingham Forest, and has made three starts with one goal in the Premier League this term. With two games remaining, starting with a clash against West Ham United on Sunday, Forest are pushing for a top-five finish in hopes of qualifying for the Champions League.The striker’s injury is not just a personal blow but a major setback for Forest’s European ambitions, with his presence sorely missed in their final league battles.