Nigeria international Taiwo Awoniyi produced a clinical display, scoring a brace to lead Nottingham Forest F.C. to a 3-1 victory over Chelsea F.C. in their English Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge.

Fast Start Sets the Tone

Forest stunned the hosts early, taking the lead inside two minutes. Awoniyi rose highest to meet a cross, powering a header into the top corner to hand the visitors a dream start.

Despite naming a strong lineup featuring Cole Palmer, Enzo Fernández, and João Pedro, Chelsea struggled to respond.

Awoniyi Inspires Second Goal

Awoniyi remained at the heart of Forest’s attacking threat, winning a penalty after being fouled by Malo Gusto. Following a VAR review by referee Anthony Taylor, the spot-kick was awarded and calmly converted by Igor Jesus.

The Nigerian striker completed his brace in the 52nd minute, finishing from close range after a swift counter-attack orchestrated by Morgan Gibbs-White. The goal took his league tally to four for the season.

Chelsea grabbed a late consolation through João Pedro, who scored a spectacular bicycle kick to end the club’s goal drought.

Blow to Chelsea’s UCL Ambitions

The defeat leaves Chelsea ninth on 48 points, 10 points behind the UEFA Champions League qualification spots with just three matches remaining.

For Nottingham Forest, the victory provides a timely boost in their battle to avoid relegation, while Awoniyi’s standout performance underlines his growing importance to the team.