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Taiwo Awoniyi said he was proud of his team after scoring twice to help Nottingham Forest secure a huge 3-1 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Monday, Footynaija reports.
Forest went into the game fighting to avoid relegation, while Chelsea were chasing a place in Europe. Many expected the home side to win, especially with Forest making sweeping changes as they prepare for a Europa League semi-final clash with Aston Villa.
But the visitors produced a stunning performance, with Awoniyi at the centre of it all. The Nigerian striker scored twice and also won a penalty in a dominant display.
Speaking after the match, Awoniyi told Sky Sports: “Football is a team game, everyone needs to be ready and it’s not about everyone starting it’s about the team.
“We came here with the mentality to win, 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, physio. It’s all about the team and looking forward to the next game. I believe it could be an amazing season for us.”
Awoniyi marked his 100th appearance for Forest in style, scoring twice in the same game for the first time since 2023, also against Chelsea.
Forest made a dream start, taking the lead after just 98 seconds. Dilane Bakwa delivered a fine cross and Awoniyi rose to head home for 1-0.
The visitors doubled their advantage in the 15th minute when Awoniyi was brought down in the box by Malo Gusto. After a VAR check, the penalty was awarded and Igor Jesus converted to make it 2-0.
Chelsea had a chance to respond just before half-time when a clash of heads involving Jesse Derry and Zach Abbott led to a penalty. However, Cole Palmer missed from the spot.
In the second half, Forest made changes and introduced Morgan Gibbs-White, who quickly made an impact. Minutes later, he set up Awoniyi for a simple finish to make it 3-0.
Chelsea thought they had pulled one back in the 73rd minute through Joao Pedro, but the goal was ruled out for offside. The Brazilian eventually scored with a bicycle kick in the 93rd minute, but it proved only a consolation.
The result lifts Forest six points clear of the relegation zone with three games left, while Chelsea’s hopes of finishing in the top five are now over.
