Nigerian forward Taiwo Awoniyi is in a medically induced coma following emergency surgery, according to reports from the English press. The Nottingham Forest striker sustained a serious abdominal injury after colliding with the goalpost during his team’s 2–2 draw against Leicester City in the Premier League on Sunday.
According to the BBC, Awoniyi underwent the first phase of surgery on Monday evening and was placed in a coma afterward to aid his recovery. The remaining part of the procedure is scheduled to be completed on Wednesday.
Earlier on Tuesday, Nottingham Forest issued a statement confirming that the Super Eagles striker was “recovering well so far” after undergoing urgent surgery for what the club described as a severe abdominal injury.
However, fresh reports suggest the injury could have been life-threatening had it not been treated in time, with the operation described as “complex.”
Awoniyi was initially treated on the pitch after crashing into the post while attempting to score. Though he tried to continue, he was eventually forced to leave the game a few minutes later. His condition remains under close medical supervision as he begins his recovery.