Awoniyi scores as captain in Nottingham Forest’s 3-0 win over Blackburn in Portugal

Taiwo Awoniyi marked his first outing of pre-season as Nottingham Forest captain with a composed finish in a 3-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers in Portugal, strengthening his bid to become a key figure under head coach Oliver Glasner.

The Nigeria international came on after the interval in the friendly against the Championship side and wore the armband for the second half, rounding off a convincing win that continues Forest’s encouraging build-up to the 2026-27 Premier League campaign.

Forest have now recorded back-to-back pre-season wins as Glasner refines his squad ahead of the new season.

Forest seize control before the break

Forest were already in command by half-time after a dominant first-half display.

Brazilian forward Igor Jesus finally broke the deadlock shortly before the interval. After seeing initial efforts blocked by the Blackburn defence, he reacted quickest to convert and give Forest a deserved lead.

The goal reflected Forest’s early pressure, with Glasner’s side enjoying sustained possession and repeatedly stretching Blackburn’s back line.

Quickfire second and captain’s goal

Any hopes of a Blackburn response were quickly extinguished after the restart.

Just three minutes into the second half, Arnaud Kalimuendo doubled Forest’s advantage, firing into the top corner with a precise finish that left the goalkeeper with little chance.

Awoniyi, introduced for the second period and entrusted with the captain’s armband, then added the third in assured fashion. Played through by Eric da Silva Moreira, the Super Eagles striker timed his run well before side-footing calmly into the bottom corner.

His goal capped a confident outing, underlining his sharpness and leadership as he returns to full fitness and form in pre-season.

Nigerians on both sides

There was a strong Nigerian presence on the pitch in Portugal.

Awoniyi’s international teammate Ola Aina started the match at right wing-back for Forest, contributing to a solid defensive performance that restricted Blackburn to limited opportunities.

The versatile defender has been heavily involved in Forest’s early pre-season work after reporting back for training ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

On the opposition side, Ryan Alebiosu featured for Blackburn Rovers, gaining valuable minutes against top-flight opposition as the Lancashire club prepare for their Championship season.

Looking ahead in Portugal

Forest will remain in Portugal as their pre-season schedule continues.

Glasner’s men are set to face Vitoria S.C. before taking on Portuguese giants Sporting CP, fixtures which will offer a sterner examination of Forest’s progress and tactical development.

For Awoniyi, the camp represents a crucial chance to impress his manager and cement his role at the heart of Forest’s attack. With goals, the captain’s armband and growing influence on the pitch, his pre-season could prove pivotal in shaping Forest’s prospects for 2026-27.