Nigerian international and Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi is on the road to recovery after being placed in an induced coma following a serious abdominal injury sustained during his side’s 2-2 Premier League draw with Leicester City last weekend.
According to Mail Sport, the 27-year-old underwent a complex and urgent surgical operation after suffering what doctors described as a potentially life-threatening internal injury. Awoniyi, who crashed into the post during the match, had initially continued playing after the incident before being forced off the pitch when his condition worsened.
The striker’s situation sparked widespread concern, with teammates, fans, and members of the football community sending prayers and well-wishes during the tense hours following the game.
Emergency Surgery and ICU Monitoring
Sources close to the club confirmed that Awoniyi was immediately rushed to a local hospital following the match and was placed under intensive care. By Wednesday night, he had been put in an induced coma to stabilize his condition before the medical team proceeded with what was described as a “complex and delicate abdominal surgery.”
The operation has now been successfully completed, and Awoniyi is reportedly conscious and responsive. Hospital staff have confirmed he is awake and surrounded by family members as he continues his recovery under close observation.
“Awoniyi’s surgery went as planned. He is now awake and recovering steadily in the hospital,” a medical source told Mail Sport on Wednesday night.
The Incident and Brave Continuation
The shocking incident occurred during Nottingham Forest’s intense Premier League clash with relegation rivals Leicester City. In the first half, Awoniyi clattered into the goalpost while attempting to connect with a cross. The impact was severe enough to cause immediate discomfort, yet the resilient forward chose to continue playing.
However, Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo had already used his final substitution window moments earlier, replacing Elliot Anderson with Jota Silva. As a result, the team had no option to take Awoniyi off the pitch until a stoppage in play.
Eyewitnesses reported that Awoniyi appeared to be in visible pain even as he pressed on for his team.
“It was clear something wasn’t right, but Taiwo kept going. That’s the kind of fighter he is,” one Forest teammate was quoted as saying.
Eventually, the medical team made the call to remove the Nigerian forward from play, and he was taken for immediate assessment.
Football World Responds With Support
Following the news of his emergency hospitalization, an outpouring of support flooded in from fans, fellow players, and football pundits around the world. Social media was awash with hashtags such as #PrayForAwoniyi and #StayStrongTaiwo, as the footballing community united in solidarity for the beloved Super Eagles striker.
Former Nigeria international Joseph Yobo wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Wishing Taiwo a full and speedy recovery. We’re all with you.”
Premier League pundit and ex-England striker Jermaine Defoe also added during a Sky Sports segment, “You never want to see a player suffer something like that. Credit to him for even trying to play on. He’s a warrior, and we hope to see him back stronger.”
Forest Await Medical Timeline
Nottingham Forest has not issued an official return date for Awoniyi, instead choosing to prioritize his health and safety during the early recovery stage. However, sources suggest that the forward will remain in hospital for the foreseeable future until he is deemed fully stable.
Manager Nuno Espírito Santo has reportedly spoken with Awoniyi’s family and is in regular contact with the club’s medical team.
“The most important thing right now is Taiwo’s health. We’re grateful the surgery was successful, and we’ll give him all the time and support he needs,” a club source told local media.
Awoniyi’s absence will be a significant blow to Forest, who are currently embroiled in a tense battle for Premier League survival. The striker has been instrumental for the team this season, providing crucial goals and leadership in the final third.
Nigeria Also Monitoring the Situation
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is also keeping a close eye on Awoniyi’s recovery, given his importance to the national team ahead of upcoming international fixtures. Head coach Finidi George has reached out to the player’s representatives and expressed optimism that the striker will return to full strength in due time.
“We’re thankful Taiwo is now out of the coma and recovering. He’s a key part of our squad, but right now, his wellbeing is what matters most,” said NFF spokesman Ademola Olajire.
A Season Disrupted by Injury
This latest setback is not the first time Awoniyi has faced adversity this season. The Nigerian forward had previously battled a groin injury that kept him out of action for several months during the early part of the campaign. His return had been widely celebrated by Forest fans, who have grown to admire his dedication and work ethic.
Despite limited appearances this season, Awoniyi has managed to contribute key goals and assists in Forest’s fight to stay in the Premier League.
Looking Ahead
While the timeline for Awoniyi’s full recovery remains uncertain, the mood around his camp is cautiously optimistic. The success of the surgery and the fact that he is now awake and surrounded by loved ones mark a significant step in what is expected to be a slow but hopeful journey back to fitness.
As Nottingham Forest prepares for their remaining fixtures without one of their key players, fans and teammates alike will continue to rally behind Awoniyi — not just as a footballer, but as a resilient fighter who has shown immense bravery in the face of a life-threatening injury.
For now, the focus remains on his recovery, with the football world united in wishing Taiwo Awoniyi a full and speedy return to health.
