Taiwo Awoniyi (C, no.9) of Nottingham Forest celebrates with teammates after scoring the opening goal during the English Premier League match Chelsea FC against Nottingham Forest, in London, Britain, 04 May 2026. EPA/ANDY RAIN
Tuesday May 05, 2026. 11:00
Nigeria international Taiwo Awoniyi downplayed his brace in the win against Chelsea FC, framing both goals as the result of collective team work rather than individual brilliance on his 100th Nottingham Forest appearance.
The 28-year-old striker credited the quick opener to the coach’s game plan after the Tricky Trees’ 3-1 Premier League win over the Blues and praised the full squad’s mentality and preparation: “It’s all about the team… not just the first eleven.”
Awoniyi also stressed that everyone — including rotation players and backroom staff — must be ready, perfectly echoing his earlier Sky Sports comments after a landmark victory at Stamford Bridge.
“Football is a team game, everyone needs to be ready, and it’s not about everyone starting, it’s about the team,” Awoniyi said on BBC.
“We came here with the mentality to win, a good ball from [Dilane] Bakwa [for his goal] as well, and the way we started the game, we had more of the ball, brilliant from the team.
“Kudos to the manager and the staff – not only the people on the ground but the nutritionists, the physio. It’s all about the team and looking forward to the next game. I believe it could be an amazing season for us.”
In the 2025/26 Premier League season, Awoniyi has made 14 appearances (one start) for Forest, scoring four goals and providing one assist.