Super Eagles of Nigeria, prolific striker Taiwo Awoniyi is poised to miss the upcoming international friendly matches against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique, MySportDab reports
The unfortunate news was confirmed by Awoniyi’s club manager, Steve Cooper, who revealed that the talented forward is nursing an injury that is expected to keep him sidelined for up to a month.
Awoniyi’s absence was notably felt in Nottingham Forest’s recent 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace on October 7, 2023, just before the international break.
With the injury sidelining him, the Nigerian International will be unable to represent his country in two crucial friendlies, with the Super Eagles set to face Saudi Arabia on October 13 and Mozambique on October 16.
Super Eagles’ head coach, Jose Peseiro, has already named his squad for these important matches but will have to make do without the services of the talented striker. Awoniyi’s last international outing saw him shine brightly, scoring in Nigeria’s emphatic 6-0 victory over Sao Tome and Principe in Uyo.
At the club level, Awoniyi has made a commendable impact, notching three goals and providing two assists in seven appearances for Nottingham Forest in the Premier League this season.
However, he has faced a recent dry spell, going five consecutive games without finding the back of the net, with his last goal for Forest dating back to August 26 in a close-fought 3-2 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Furthermore, Nottingham Forest’s defensive stalwart, Ola Aina, who was named the club’s September Player of the Month, is also grappling with an injury concern. Aina’s participation in the Super Eagles’ upcoming fixtures remains uncertain, as he was absent during Forest’s recent encounter against Crystal Palace.
The absence of these key players is undoubtedly a blow to Nigeria’s preparations for the international friendlies, and fans will be anxiously awaiting updates on their recoveries as the Super Eagles aim to secure positive results against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique.
