AliousTaiwo Awoniyi’s Tough Season Takes Another Hit with Nigeria Snub
Taiwo Awoniyi’s challenging season at Nottingham Forest has taken another frustrating turn after being left out of Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming **2026 World Cup qualifiers** against **Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
The decision, made by Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle, has raised eyebrows, with former Nigeria defender Sam Elijah voicing his discontent. Speaking to allnigeriasoccer.com, Elijah questioned the exclusion of a player who has been a consistent presence in the national team setup.
“It is not justified. Sincerely, to exclude Taiwo Awoniyi, who has been part of the team for a very long time,” he argued. “He didn’t get the opportunity to show his full potential because of injuries, but whenever he has played for Nigeria, he has left his mark.”
Struggles at Nottingham Forest
Awoniyi’s limited role at Nottingham Forest this season may have influenced his omission. Under Nuno Espírito Santo, he has struggled for regular starts, with Chris Wood cementing himself as the team’s first-choice striker, already notching up 18 Premier League goals.
As a result, Awoniyi has had to settle for just two league starts, with most of his appearances coming from the bench—18 substitute appearances and a single goal to his name so far.
With injuries hampering his momentum and competition for places intensifying, the 26-year-old forward faces an uphill battle to regain both his club and national team status.
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