Pereira lauds Awoniyi after match-winning brace at Chelsea

Nottingham Forest manager Vítor Pereira has heaped praise on striker Taiwo Awoniyi following his clinical brace in the club’s vital 3-1 away victory over Chelsea in the English Premier League.

Making only his second start of the current campaign, Awoniyi celebrated his milestone 100th appearance for Forest in spectacular fashion. His two-goal contribution has provided a massive boost to the Garibaldi’s hopes of securing their top-flight status and escaping the threat of relegation.

Pereira hails Awoniyi’s infectious spirit

Reflecting on the result during his post-match interview, Pereira expressed his immense delight regarding the Nigerian international’s performance and character.

“Until now, I have never seen Taiwo without a smile—never,” Pereira remarked. “Every single day, whether he is playing or not playing, he is the same person, the same fighter, with the same spirit and the same energy. I had no doubts that he would perform and score goals. In fact, I told him before the game, ‘you will score for sure today,’ and he went out and scored two. I am very happy for him, very happy for our supporters, and for all our players.”

Awoniyi’s double took his season tally to four goals in 14 appearances. The crucial victory keeps Forest in 16th place on the table with 42 points—establishing a six-point cushion above the relegation zone with only three matches remaining in the season.

Interestingly, Awoniyi’s only other start this term also came against Chelsea in the reverse fixture. History appears to be repeating itself, as the last time he recorded a Premier League brace was also against the Blues on May 13, 2025, when his goals played a similarly pivotal role in lifting Forest away from the bottom three.