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Taiwo Awoniyi, the Nottingham Forest and Nigeria international striker, faced disciplinary action from the English Football Association after he displayed a religious message during a goal celebration on Sunday. The 28-year-old revealed an undershirt bearing the words “God is the greatest” after scoring in his club’s 3-0 Premier League victory over Tottenham Hotspur at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Incident Occurs During Decisive Victory
The incident took place in the closing stages of the match on March 22, 2026. Awoniyi entered the game as a second-half substitute and sealed the win with a composed finish, marking his second goal of the season and his 20th strike for the club. Additionally, the goal ended a two-month drought for the forward, who has struggled with injuries and inconsistent form throughout the campaign.
After finding the net, Awoniyi removed his match shirt and sprinted toward the corner flag. Beneath his jersey, he wore an undershirt emblazoned with the declaration of faith. Furthermore, he dropped to his knees in an act of worship while visible relief appeared on his face. The match referee immediately issued a yellow card for the shirt removal, which violates FIFA Laws of the Game regarding player equipment and celebrations.
Regulations Prohibit Religious Displays
The Football Association enforces strict regulations concerning slogans and messages displayed on the pitch. According to FA and Premier League equipment regulations, “Players must not reveal undergarments that show political, religious, or personal slogans, statements, or images, or advertising other than the manufacturer’s logo.”
The rules further state that “For any offence, the player and/or the team will be sanctioned by the competition organiser, the national football association, or by FIFA.” Consequently, Awoniyi’s display of a religious message triggered a review by FA officials, who possess the authority to impose additional sanctions beyond the automatic booking he received during the match.
Player Defends Expression of Faith
Awoniyi addressed the celebration on social media shortly after the match concluded. He posted on Instagram: “For who shall bring him to see what shall be after him? Ecclesiastes 3:22 KJV. There’s only 1 true God and through the years, in good and bad times, 1corinthians 8:6 He’s forever the GREATEST.”
The post attracted over 35,000 reactions, including responses from fellow Nigerian internationals Kelechi Iheanacho, Odion Ighalo, and Joe Aribo, as well as Forest teammate Neco Williams, who provided the assist for the goal.
