Super Eagles star Awoniyi nominated for award after historic brace at Chelsea

Taiwo Awoniyi’s stunning return to the spotlight has earned him a place among the Premier League’s best performers of the week, after he inspired Nottingham Forest to a famous win at Stamford Bridge, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 28-year-old forward has been nominated for the Matchweek 35 Player of the Matchweek award following his outstanding display in Forest’s 3-1 victory over Chelsea FC on Monday afternoon.

Making only his second start of the season, Awoniyi rose to the occasion in remarkable fashion. The Super Eagles striker marked his 100th appearance for Nottingham Forest with a brace and also won a penalty, delivering what has described as a complete centre-forward performance.

He needed just 98 seconds to make his mark, powering home a header to give Forest an early lead. It was one of the fastest away goals scored at Stamford Bridge in over a decade, instantly putting Chelsea under pressure. Awoniyi later won a penalty, calmly converted by Igor Jesus, before adding his second goal early in the second half to seal a memorable night.

Overall, the former Union Berlin star grabbed his two goals from two shots on target, won one penalty, and an ended with an impressive match rating of 8.58. More importantly, his contribution moved Forest six points clear of the relegation zone, a huge boost in their fight for Premier League survival.

This performance, combined with the milestone of his 100th club appearance, has made Awoniyi a strong favourite for the award, which is decided by fans through the official Premier League voting channels.

Awoniyi stands tall among the Premier League elite

Matchweek 35 of the 2025/26 Premier League season delivered several eye-catching individual displays, but Awoniyi’s impact stands out because of its importance to his team.

The former Liverpool signing is up against six other top performers, including Thierno Barry, who scored twice off the bench in Everton’s 3-3 draw with Manchester City, and Jeremy Doku, whose late brilliance rescued a point for City in the same match.

Tottenham midfielder Conor Gallagher also impressed with a goal and strong defensive work, while Arsenal duo Viktor Gyökeres (a brace) and Bukayo Saka (a goal and an assist) starred in a 3-0 win over Fulham.

Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo produced a match-winning display for Manchester United against Liverpool.

Despite the quality of the competition, Awoniyi’s case is strengthened by context. Unlike many of the other nominees playing for titles or European places, his performance directly changed the outlook of Forest’s season.

Awoniyi would be keen to win another important individual Premier League award, after missing out on a Player of the Month honour in August 2023.

Voting for the Matchweek 35 award remains open until 12:00 BST on Wednesday, May 6, with the winner set to be announced later that day.