Awoniyi Ends Goal Drought as Forest Boost Survival Hopes with Brentford Win

Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi finally opened his account for the season as Nottingham Forest defeated Brentford 2-0 on Sunday, a crucial victory that lifted the Tricky Trees further away from the relegation zone.

Forest got off to a bright start at the City Ground, with Igor Jesus breaking the deadlock in the 12th minute after a well-worked move. Nigerian full-back Ola Aina played a key role in the goal, providing the assist that put the hosts firmly in control early on.

Awoniyi, who started the game on the bench, was introduced in the 68th minute and wasted no time making his presence felt. Eleven minutes from full-time, the striker produced a moment of individual brilliance, driving into the box before calmly slotting the ball into the net to seal all three points for Forest.

The goal marked Awoniyi’s first for Nottingham Forest since February 11, 2025, when he scored in a 2-2 draw against Exeter, ending a long and frustrating goal drought for the Nigerian forward.

Opinion: A Timely Goal That Could Change Everything

For Taiwo Awoniyi, this goal could be more than just a statistic—it could be a turning point. Strikers thrive on confidence, and breaking such a long dry spell often unlocks a new level of belief and sharpness. His composure and strength in the buildup to the goal showed a player who is regaining trust in his body and instincts.

For Nottingham Forest, the timing couldn’t be better. Goals, especially decisive ones, are priceless in a relegation battle. Awoniyi’s strike not only secured the win but also sent a message that Forest have attacking options capable of delivering in big moments.

If Awoniyi can build on this momentum, Forest’s fight for Premier League survival just got a lot stronger—and Nigerian fans will be hoping this is the start of a fruitful run for one of their own.