Awoniyi Played Through Potentially Fatal Injury as Forest Owner Marinakis Erupts Over Medical Handling

NOTTINGHAM — Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi unknowingly risked his life on the pitch Sunday, playing through an abdominal injury so severe that, in rare cases, it can be fatal.

The 27-year-old Nigerian international collided with the post during Forest’s 2-2 draw with Leicester City, receiving several minutes of treatment before staggering back into play. Forest had already used their final substitution, leaving Awoniyi no choice but to carry on visibly impaired, as the team pushed for a crucial winner.

Forest confirmed on Tuesday that Awoniyi underwent emergency surgery after hospital tests on Monday revealed the alarming extent of the damage. Sources have confirmed to Mail Sport that the nature of the injury, while rare, can in some cases result in death if not treated immediately.

In the aftermath, club owner Evangelos Marinakis was seen in a visibly heated exchange with manager Nuno Espirito Santo. While initial speculation suggested tension over team performance, it has now emerged that Marinakis was furious over how the injury was handled on the touchline — concerned for Awoniyi’s safety and whether proper medical protocol was followed.

Adding fuel to the controversy, the incident that led to the injury occurred under controversial circumstances. Anthony Elanga, whose cross Awoniyi chased before colliding with the post, had been in an offside position — yet play was allowed to continue under current officiating guidance.

To make matters worse, the missed win could deal a serious blow to Forest’s Champions League ambitions. Even with two matches left, they now depend on results elsewhere.

A club spokesperson said: “Nottingham Forest can confirm Taiwo Awoniyi has undergone urgent surgery following an abdominal injury sustained during Sunday’s match against Leicester City. Everyone at the club sends their best wishes to Taiwo. Further updates will follow when appropriate.”

Awoniyi’s condition is now stable, but the fallout from Sunday’s events — both on and off the pitch — continues to rock the club.