Taiwo Awoniyi marks captaincy with goal as Forest defeat Blackburn in Portugal

Taiwo Awoniyi marked his first appearance as Nottingham Forest captain by scoring in a 3-0 pre-season victory over Blackburn Rovers in Portugal.

The Nigeria international came on at half-time wearing the captain’s armband and capped an impressive display with Forest’s third goal as they continued their preparations for the 2026-27 Premier League season.

Forest took the lead shortly before the interval through summer signing Igor Jesus, who found the net after seeing his initial efforts blocked.

The Premier League side doubled their advantage three minutes into the second half when Arnaud Kalimuendo finished into the top corner.

Awoniyi completed the scoring after being played through by Eric da Silva Moreira, calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner to seal Forest’s second successive pre-season victory.

The goal continued the striker’s encouraging return to action as he looks to establish himself under head coach Oliver Glasner ahead of the new campaign.

Fellow Nigeria international Ola Aina started at right wing-back and helped Forest keep a clean sheet with a composed defensive performance.

Blackburn also fielded a Nigerian player, with Ryan Alebiosu featuring for the Championship club.

Forest continue their pre-season programme with fixtures against Vitória SC and Sporting CP before the start of the new season.