The global football community has come together in support of Nigerian international Taiwo Awoniyi, who is now recovering at home with his family after being brought out of an induced coma following emergency surgery for a serious abdominal injury, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The Nottingham Forest striker sustained a ruptured intestine after a collision with the goalpost during his side’s 2-2 draw with Leicester City at the City Ground on Sunday. Awoniyi, 27, had come on as a substitute in the 83rd minute and was injured just five minutes later while attempting to convert a cross from Anthony Elanga.
He underwent the first phase of surgery on Monday night and remains under medical observation, with further procedures expected.
The news triggered a wave of prayers and well-wishes from across the football world. Teammates, clubs, fans, and football figures have been offering messages of hope and support. Among the first were several of his fellow Super Eagles stars.
Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray wrote, “Prayers up for you brother, God will never leave you,” while Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface added, “Lord guide and protect you brother.”
Captain William Troost-Ekong shared a message with prayer emojis, and former Chelsea star John Mikel Obi simply wrote, “Praying for Taiwo.”
Ademola Lookman echoed the sentiment, posting, “Get well soon Taiwo Awoniyi.”
Atletico Madrid’s Rasheedat Ajibade, who recently hosted Awoniyi on her “Rash 4 Christ” podcast, shared a moving message:
“Our hearts are heavy as we hold Taiwo Awoniyi in our prayers. Just days ago, he shared his light and strength with us. Now, as he fights through this difficult moment, we stand with him and his family in faith and hope. God is with you, Taiwo. You’re not alone.”
Support has also poured in from beyond Nigeria. His former club, Union Berlin, wrote, “Sending our love, and very best wishes for a quick recovery.”
Broadcaster DStv encouraged fans to “Say a prayer for Taiwo Awoniyi,” while Nigerian international Rinsola Babajide posted, “My prayers and strength go out to Taiwo Awoniyi during this difficult period, wishing him a full speedy recovery.”
Sports analyst Kelechi Anyikude added, “My thoughts are with Taiwo Awoniyi, his family, and friends at this time. Speedy recovery bro.”
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq also paid tribute, calling Awoniyi “more than just a footballer,” and a “valued citizen” whose contributions to his community remain deeply appreciated.
In an official statement, Nottingham Forest confirmed that Awoniyi is “recovering well” and highlighted the incident as “a powerful reminder of the physical risks in the game and why a player’s health and wellbeing must always come first.”
Club owner Evangelos Marinakis, visibly concerned after the match, has been receiving constant updates on Awoniyi’s condition.
The incident has also reignited debate over the current VAR protocol, particularly the delay in raising the offside flag, a practice critics argue may increase the risk of serious injury to players.
Advertisement
