English Premier League
Taiwo Awoniyi suffers terrible collision in Nottingham Forest win
By Monsurah Olatunji
Nottingham Forest forward Taiwo Awoniyi endured a distressing incident during their FA Cup tie against Exeter City at St. James’ Park on Tuesday night.
Despite the frightening moment, Forest managed to progress to the fifth round, securing a 4-2 victory in the penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw following extra time.
Awoniyi’s unfortunate collision occurred when he leapt to contest a high ball but suffered a brutal impact with Exeter goalkeeper Joe Whitworth. The collision saw Whitworth’s body connect squarely with Awoniyi’s face as both players fell to the ground.
The severity of the situation became apparent as blood began to pour from Awoniyi’s nose, prompting urgent medical attention.
While it was unclear whether the 27-year-old striker lost consciousness, he was quickly placed in the recovery position. After approximately ten minutes of treatment on the pitch, Awoniyi was carried off on a stretcher, leaving the Forest bench concerned.
Awoniyi had earlier found the back of the net, scoring Forest’s second goal with a powerful strike, but the injury overshadowed his goal-scoring contribution.
In a positive update from BBC Sport, it was confirmed that a ‘groggy’ Awoniyi was seen walking unaided from the medical center at St. James’ Park back to the Forest dressing room.
While the full extent of his injuries remains unclear, Forest offered their support to the player.
“Woody replaces Taiwo, who is on the end of a nasty aerial collision. Our thoughts are with you, T,” the club posted on X during the game.
