Taiwo Awoniyi was on target as Nottingham Forest secured a hard-fought victory over Exeter City, winning 4-2 on penalties after a dramatic 2-2 draw in the FA Cup fourth round on Tuesday night.
Awoniyi, making his fourth FA Cup appearance, finally got off the mark in the competition with a stunning left-footed strike from outside the box in the 37th minute, giving Forest a 2-1 lead after Ramón Sosa had earlier cancelled out Josh Magennis’ opener for Exeter.
However, the lead didn’t last long, as Exeter responded just five minutes into the second half to level the score at 2-2.
Despite being reduced to 10 men with three minutes left, the lower-division side managed to hold on, forcing the game into extra time and eventually penalties.
Taiwo Awoniyi scores during the FA Cup Fourth Round match between Exeter City and Nottingham Forest at St James Park. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Injury Concern for Awoniyi
Awoniyi was a constant threat during his 90 minutes on the pitch, registering four shots on target, one effort blocked, and completing 70% of his passes (7/10).
However, his night took a worrying turn in extra time when he suffered a heavy clash of heads with Exeter goalkeeper Joe Whitworth in the 103rd minute.
The collision left Awoniyi on the ground, requiring lengthy medical attention before he was stretchered off.
The incident occurred when Whitworth rushed out to claim a high ball, inadvertently colliding with Awoniyi.
The Nigerian forward appeared to headbutt the keeper, leading to immediate concern from medical staff.
Club doctors and paramedics attended to him on the pitch, with Awoniyi appearing to be placed in the recovery position.
While it was unclear whether he lost consciousness, the forward was carried off after approximately ten minutes of treatment.
Fortunately, there was good news shortly after, as reports confirmed Awoniyi was able to walk back to the dressing room unaided, albeit looking slightly groggy.
What’s Next for Awoniyi?
This goal marks Awoniyi’s second of the 2024/25 season, having previously scored in Forest’s 3-0 Premier League win over Wolves.
However, the extent of his injury remains uncertain, leaving both Forest and Nigerian fans anxious ahead of crucial fixtures.
Meanwhile, Super Eagles defender Ola Aina was not included in Forest’s squad for the Cup tie.
