Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has reflected on his iconic goal against Liverpool in the 2022-2023 Premier League season, calling it a moment he will cherish forever. The 29-year-old Nigerian forward scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory for Forest at the City Ground on October 22, 2022, sealing a crucial win against the club he once represented without ever playing for them. Awoniyi’s goal came in the 55th minute after he reacted quickest to slot home the rebound following his initial shot hitting the post. The match marked a significant milestone in his career, especially given his complex history with Liverpool.
Awoniyi spent six years on Liverpool’s books, having joined the club’s youth academy in 2015 after impressing at the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup. Despite his time in the academy and multiple loan spells, he never made a senior appearance for the Reds. His inability to secure a work permit due to not having earned a senior cap for the Super Eagles at the time prevented him from playing in the Premier League under Liverpool’s banner. During his time with the club, he was loaned out to six different teams: FSV Frankfurt, NEC Nijmegen, Royal Excel Mouscron, Racing Genk, Mainz 05, and Union Berlin, where he eventually secured a permanent move.
The goal against Liverpool carried deep personal significance for Awoniyi. Speaking to Nottingham Forest’s YouTube channel, he shared his mixed emotions about scoring against the club he once called home. “Nottingham Forest 1-0 against Liverpool on October 22, 2022. Scoring against them is a bit of mixed feeling,” he said. “Unfortunately, I didn’t get to play for them, but scoring for Forest against them, and looking at how much we were looking for the points at that time was something I will never forget as well.” The victory was vital for Forest’s survival bid that season, and Awoniyi’s contribution played a key role.
Since then, Awoniyi has continued to grow as a player, delivering consistent performances for Forest. In recent weeks, he has been particularly impressive, contributing five goal involvements — three goals and two assists — in his last five Premier League appearances. His form has reinforced his importance to the team and highlighted his development into a reliable striker in England’s top flight. As Forest aim for stability and progress in the league, Awoniyi’s experience and goal-scoring ability remain crucial assets. His journey from Liverpool’s academy to becoming a key figure for Nottingham Forest underscores his resilience and determination, and his legacy continues to grow with every match.
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