Taiwo Awoniyi scores first Coventry goal as Iroegbunam also finds net

Super Eagles forward Taiwo Awoniyi scored his first Premier League goal for Coventry City in a 3-1 win over Sunderland on Saturday, while compatriot Tim Iroegbunam also found the net for Hull City in a 2-2 draw with Ipswich Town.

Awoniyi was back from suspension. The goal came at the end of the first half: he won the ball from Sunderland defender Luke O'Nien, drove into the penalty area and finished past goalkeeper Robin Roefs.

It was his second goal in eight appearances in all competitions since his summer move from Nottingham Forest.

Iroegbunam opens his Premier League account for the season

Iroegbunam, the former Everton midfielder, scored his first Premier League goal of the season at the MKM Stadium. He collected the ball just inside Ipswich's half on the right, ran into the box and finished past goalkeeper Christian Walton.

The midfielder has had fitness problems this season. Hull's other Nigerian, defender Semi Ajayi, spoke after the Brentford draw a few days earlier about the value of a home point.

Analysis: Why the timing helps both players with the Super Eagles

Two Nigerians scoring on the same Saturday is useful evidence for Eric Chelle, ahead of the November AFCON qualifiers against Tanzania. Nigeria have gone five games without a clean sheet, and Victor Osimhen has been reported to be returning from injury.

For Awoniyi, a goal after suspension is a reminder that he can win the ball high up the pitch and finish. Whether that is enough to earn a call-up will depend on Chelle's choices up front, and one goal is a small sample.

Iroegbunam's case rests on staying fit. A goal helps, but staying fit matters more. Both players will want a run of starts before the squad is announced.