Nottingham Forest Striker Awoniyi Undergoes Emergency Surgery After Match Injury

Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery on an abdominal injury sustained during a 2-2 draw against Leicester City, after colliding with a post while attempting to convert a cross. Although Awoniyi tried to continue playing following initial treatment, the severity of his injury was only fully recognized the next day by Forest's medical staff, prompting immediate surgery which is not believed to be life-threatening. The incident sparked a strong reaction from Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, who confronted manager Nuno Espirito Santo after the match due to concerns over Awoniyi being left on the pitch despite medical consultations. The draw was a setback for Nottingham Forest's hopes of qualifying for the Champions League, as they now sit just outside the top five with two games remaining, though they have secured a place in the UEFA Conference League for the first time since the 1995-96 season. The injury and subsequent events highlight the team's challenging situation as they aim to reach the Champions League for the first time since the 1980-81 season.