FA Cup: Taiwo Awoniyi on target as Nottingham Forest see off Exeter City

By Monsurah Olatunji

Nigeria international Taiwo Awoniyi found the back of the net as Nottingham Forest played out a thrilling 2-2 draw against Exeter City in their FA Cup clash at St. James’ Park.

However, it was Forest who advanced to the fifth round, winning 4-2 in a dramatic penalty shootout after the match ended level at the end of regular time.

Awoniyi scored his first-ever FA Cup goal in his fourth appearance in the competition, netting in the 37th minute with a powerful left-footed strike from outside the box.

His goal came at a crucial moment, helping Forest to a 2-1 lead after Exeter’s Josh Magennis had opened the scoring. Forest quickly responded when Ramon Sosa equalized in the 15th minute.

However, the game was far from over as an own goal by Willy-Arnaud Boly in the second half saw the match tied at 2-2, forcing extra time. Despite the setbacks, Forest managed to hold on, with Awoniyi’s efforts contributing to their eventual triumph in the shootout.

Throughout the match, the former Liverpool forward was a constant threat to the Exeter defense. He registered four shots on target, with one effort blocked, and completed 70% of his passes (7/10). His attacking performance was a key highlight for Forest.

Sadly, Awoniyi’s evening was marred by an injury in extra time. He suffered a heavy clash of heads with Exeter goalkeeper Joe Whitworth in the 103rd minute, and the 25-year-old was stretchered off the pitch.

The injury left a shadow over an otherwise standout performance, and Forest will be hoping for a swift recovery for the Super Eagles striker.