The Nigerian internationals played their part as Forest defeated Notts County 2-0 in Olivier Glasner’s first match in charge.
Super Eagles stars Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi both featured as Nottingham Forest marked the beginning of a new chapter under head coach Olivier Glasner with a 2-0 preseason victory over local rivals Notts County.
The friendly fixture was Glasner’s first game in charge since taking over earlier this summer, and the Austrian manager watched his side produce an encouraging performance as preparations for the 2026/27 Premier League season gathered momentum.
Forest broke the deadlock in the 26th minute when Brazilian striker Igor Jesus found the back of the net. The Premier League club then extended their advantage early in the second half, with French forward Arnaud Kalimuendo scoring to wrap up a comfortable win.
Aina Delivers Solid Defensive Display
Super Eagles defender Ola Aina was handed a place in the starting lineup and produced a disciplined performance during the opening half.
The Nigerian full-back, who battled injuries during parts of last season, helped Forest remain defensively organised before being substituted at halftime as Glasner rotated his squad to assess different players.
His composed display will be a positive sign as he looks to secure a regular starting role under the club’s new manager.
Awoniyi Continues Preparations for New Season
Taiwo Awoniyi was introduced after the interval and played his part as Forest comfortably controlled the remainder of the contest.
The Nigerian striker will be hoping to build on the strong finish he enjoyed last season after overcoming a difficult spell earlier in the campaign.
The former Union Berlin forward ended the 2025/26 Premier League season in impressive form, contributing three goals and two assists in his final six league appearances. Across the campaign, he recorded four goals and two assists in 17 league matches.
Competition for Places Begins
With preseason now underway, both Nigerian internationals will be eager to impress Olivier Glasner as Nottingham Forest continue preparations for the new campaign.
The friendly victory offered an early opportunity for the new manager to assess his squad, while Super Eagles stars at Nottingham Forest continue their push for regular starting roles ahead of another demanding Premier League season.
As the Nottingham Forest preseason 2026 schedule continues, Aina and Awoniyi will be aiming to build on this positive start and establish themselves as key figures in Glasner’s plans.