Taiwo Awoniyi made his long-awaited return to Nottingham Forest’s starting lineup on Saturday, but it ended in disappointment as his side suffered a 3–0 home defeat to Chelsea at the City Ground in the English Premier League.
The Nigerian striker, who had been sidelined since last season due to a serious abdominal injury that reportedly left him in a coma, led the line from the start but missed a key early chance to put Forest ahead.
Forest created early opportunities, with Morgan Gibbs-White also fluffing two good first-half chances, but they failed to convert dominance into goals.
Chelsea, missing midfield stars Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez, struggled in the first half. But three decisive substitutions at halftime by manager Enzo Maresca, including the introduction of Moises Caicedo, turned the game around.
Teen defender Josh Acheampong and winger Pedro Neto scored early in the second half before Reece James, captaining the side, wrapped up the win with a third goal.
The result proved costly for Forest boss Ange Postecoglou, who was sacked just 19 minutes after the final whistle. The 60-year-old Australian leaves the club after just 39 days in charge and a run of eight winless games.
Awoniyi’s return remains a positive takeaway for Forest fans, but the club will now be seeking new leadership as they attempt to escape relegation troubles.
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