LIVE UPDATES
In a setback for Nottingham Forest and the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, forward Taiwo Awoniyi is set to miss the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations due to a groin injury sustained during Nigeria's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho last Thursday.
Awoniyi, who plays a pivotal role for both his club and the Super Eagles, was replaced by Terem Moffi in the 59th minute of the encounter. The 26-year-old subsequently missed Nigeria's following game against Zimbabwe, returning to his club for a thorough assessment of the injury.
The severity of the injury was revealed by Forest boss Steve Cooper in a press conference on Thursday. He stated, "It's bad news on Taiwo; he's had to have surgery, and he is going to be out for months." Cooper expressed the club's commitment to supporting Awoniyi in his recovery journey but acknowledged the unfortunate blow to the player, highlighting his significance to the team.
Awoniyi's absence will be felt not only by Nottingham Forest but also by the Nigerian national team, as he has been a key contributor with four goals in 11 games for the Tricky Trees this season. Cooper praised Awoniyi's character, describing him as a "good guy" and a "good professional" who is eager to perform well, making the injury particularly harsh for the player.
As preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations intensify, both Nottingham Forest and Nigeria will need to adjust their strategies and lineups to compensate for the loss of Awoniyi's goal-scoring prowess.
Nottingham Forest's Awoniyi Ruled Out of 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Due to Injury Blow
