Super Eagles striker, Taiwo Awoniyi, delivered a standout performance on Monday afternoon, scoring twice as Nottingham Forest stunned Chelsea FC 3-1 in a Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge.
Handed a rare start by manager Vítor Pereira, Awoniyi led a much-changed Forest side and wasted no time making his mark, opening the scoring early in the contest.
The Nigerian striker doubled his tally in the second half, capping an impressive display that helped Forest secure a crucial away victory in their push for Premier League survival.
Awoniyi, who has endured a difficult season plagued by injuries and inconsistent form, seized his opportunity to shine and put Chelsea on the back foot throughout the encounter.
Forest took the lead just two minutes into the match when Awoniyi connected with a pinpoint cross from Dilane Bakwa, powering a close-range header into the top corner.
The visitors extended their advantage within the opening quarter-hour after being awarded a penalty, which Igor Jesus calmly converted.
Chelsea attempted to respond before the break, but Cole Palmer missed from the spot on the stroke of halftime, allowing Forest to maintain their lead heading into the interval.
Seven minutes after the restart, Awoniyi struck again, finishing off a low cross from Morgan Gibbs-White. A late consolation goal from João Pedro proved insufficient, as Forest held on for victory. Awoniyi now has four goals and one assist in 15 league appearances this season and will hope to feature in the club’s Europa League semi-final against Aston Villa on Thursday.
