Taiwo Awoniyi in Induced Coma After Emergency Surgery for Ruptured Intestine

By Admin

Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been placed in an induced coma following emergency surgery for a ruptured intestine, sparking a wave of concern and support across the football community.

The 27-year-old forward, who plays for Nottingham Forest in the English Premier League, sustained the injury during the final minutes of Forest’s 2-2 draw against Leicester City on Sunday. Awoniyi, recently introduced as a substitute, collided with the goalpost while attempting to convert a cross from teammate Anthony Elanga.

Despite receiving immediate medical attention on the field, Awoniyi initially attempted to continue playing. However, worsening symptoms prompted further medical evaluation on Monday. He was subsequently admitted to hospital and underwent abdominal surgery later that night.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Nottingham Forest confirmed that Awoniyi was “recovering well” but had been placed in a medically induced coma to stabilize his condition and regulate his heart rate. The club added that his condition is not life-threatening.

Reactions from fans, teammates, and clubs around the world have poured in. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), via the official Super Eagles account on X (formerly Twitter), extended its best wishes to the striker.

Among the notable messages was one from Rasheedat Ajibade, Super Falcons forward and Atlético Madrid player, who wrote:

“Our hearts are heavy as we hold Taiwo Awoniyi in our prayers… God is with you, Taiwo. You’re not alone.”

Awoniyi’s former club, Union Berlin, also sent a message of solidarity, writing:
“Sending our love and very best wishes for a quick recovery to Taiwo Awoniyi.”

The incident has reignited discussion around the implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) protocols. Elanga, who assisted the cross, was in an offside position when he received the ball. Under current rules, assistant referees are instructed to delay raising the flag until a scoring chance concludes. Critics argue this practice puts players at risk, as seen in Awoniyi’s injury.

Following the match, Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis entered the pitch, leading to speculation of a confrontation with head coach Nuno Espírito Santo. The club swiftly denied these reports.

In a statement, Nottingham Forest said Marinakis acted out of concern: “His deep frustration at seeing our player lying on the ground in severe pain, triggered him to go onto the pitch. There was no confrontation with the coach or anyone else.”

The club emphasized its commitment to providing further updates on Awoniyi’s condition as they become available.