UCL ticket will be a huge motivation for Nottingham Forest – Super Eagles star

Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi says qualifying for next season’s UEFA Champions League would serve as a huge reward for Nottingham Forest’s hard work this campaign, Soccernet.ng reports.

Nuno Espirito Santo's boys were on the brink of relegation to the second division of the English league, ending the season with 32 points and finishing in 17th place in the Premier League standings.

This season, it has been a surprise for the Reds, as they were at one point fighting for the league title. Although a few losses have dropped them to sixth place in the league standings, they have been one of the biggest surprises of the 2024–25 season.

What Awoniyi Said About the Champions League

Meanwhile, Awoniyi, who has battled through injuries this season, revealed in a chat with Humble Boots that missing out on FA Cup glory has only sharpened the team’s focus on securing a top-four Premier League finish. A Champions League spot, he says, would be a reward for their hard work this season.

“I think presently nothing but the Champions League. Presently we are out of the FA Cup after going through a long one. I broke my nose in the midst of it as well, got knocked out in the semi-final (Nottingham Forest 0-2 Manchester City). So, if I would justify the season and how far we have worked hard, I think making the Champions League would be a huge motivation for us as a team,” Awoniyi said.

Nottingham Forest's Place in the Premier League

Nottingham Forest currently sit sixth in the Premier League table with 61 points, just two behind fourth-placed Newcastle United.

The Tricky Trees will host a struggling Leicester City side at the City Ground this weekend, with hopes of claiming all three points to return to the top four.

Having already exceeded expectations this season, Awoniyi and his teammates know that Champions League qualification would be a historic achievement — and a fitting end to their campaign.