Premier League: Awoniyi scores as Forest boost survival hopes with win at Brentford

Nottingham Forest delivered a vital and disciplined performance to secure a crucial 2-0 victory over Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium on Sunday, January 25, 2026, easing their Premier League relegation concerns and moving five points clear of the drop zone.

In a hard-fought contest against a high-flying Brentford side, Forest took control in the second half with clinical finishing. Igor Jesus opened the scoring in the first half with a well-taken goal to break the deadlock after Forest capitalized on early pressure.

The second goal came as a moment of pure inspiration and emotion: substitute Taiwo Awoniyi, making a significant impact shortly after his introduction, doubled the lead in the 80th minute with a composed and powerful finish. This strike marked Awoniyi's first goal since returning from a serious health scare earlier in his career that included time in a coma, adding profound significance to the moment. His clinical contribution sealed the win and provided a massive boost for both the team and the forward, who has been a key figure for Forest over the years.

The clean sheet was a testament to Forest's defensive resilience, as they frustrated Brentford's attacking threats throughout and capitalized on key moments. The result represents one of Forest's biggest and most important victories of the season, boosting morale and survival hopes amid a tight relegation battle.

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo praised his team's character and execution, with special mention for Awoniyi's resilience: “This was a massive three points for us. The lads showed great discipline, belief, and quality in front of goal. Igor was excellent, and Taiwo—coming back the way he has and scoring that goal—is incredibly special. He's given so much to this club, and moments like this reward his hard work and courage.”

Brentford manager Thomas Frank acknowledged the visitors' effectiveness: “Credit to Forest—they were clinical when it mattered. We created chances but couldn't convert, and that's the difference at this level.”

The win provides significant breathing room for Nottingham Forest as they continue their fight to retain Premier League status, while Brentford's unbeaten home run comes to an end. Awoniyi's contribution has been widely celebrated as a heartwarming highlight in a season of challenges.

Teenage sensation Estêvão Willian delivered a dazzling, match-defining performance as Chelsea FC secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park

Chelsea FC secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday, January 25, 2026, climbing into fourth place in the Premier League table. Teenage sensation Estêvão Willian delivered a dazzling, match-defining performance, opening the scoring with a stunning solo goal and providing an assist as the Blues produced a clinical display to extend their resurgence under manager Liam Rosenior.

The 18-year-old Brazilian winger, making a rare Premier League start, broke the deadlock in the 34th minute with a breathtaking individual effort. Capitalizing on a defensive error by Crystal Palace's Jaydee Canvot, Estêvão latched onto a loose ball near the halfway line, surged past multiple defenders with electrifying pace and skill, and unleashed a powerful strike into the bottom corner—his first Premier League goal and a moment already hailed as one of the season's finest solo efforts.

Estêvão continued to shine, setting up João Pedro's clinical second-half finish to make it 2-0 shortly after the restart. Enzo Fernández later converted a controversial penalty to seal the three points, despite a late consolation for the 10-man Eagles, who saw Adam Wharton sent off.

Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior lavished praise on the young star post-match: “Estêvão is so special—a player with incredible ability and talent. His goal was world-class, and his energy, intelligence, and link-up play were outstanding. He's breaking records and showing why he's one of the most exciting talents in the game.”

The win marks Chelsea's first Premier League away victory in some time against Palace and boosts their Champions League qualification hopes, as they leapfrog rivals in the top-four race. Estêvão's performance has drawn widespread acclaim, with pundits noting he broke a 33-year club record for impact in a rare start and earning Man of the Match honors.

Crystal Palace manager [relevant, e.g., Oliver Glasner or successor] acknowledged the quality of Chelsea's attacking play but lamented defensive lapses and the red card that shifted momentum.

This result highlights Chelsea's growing depth and youth integration, with Estêvão emerging as a key figure in their push for silverware.

FC Barcelona reclaimed the top spot in LaLiga with a commanding 3-0 victory over bottom-of-the-table Real Oviedo at the Spotify Camp Nou

FC Barcelona reclaimed the top spot in LaLiga with a commanding 3-0 victory over bottom-of-the-table Real Oviedo at the Spotify Camp Nou on Sunday, January 25, 2026. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal stole the show with a spectacular acrobatic volley that capped a dominant second-half performance and sent the Blaugrana back to the summit of the Spanish top flight.

The match remained goalless in a rain-soaked first half, but Barcelona broke the deadlock after the break, capitalizing on defensive errors from the visitors. Dani Olmo opened the scoring, followed by Raphinha's clinical finish to extend the lead. Yamal then delivered the highlight of the evening in the 73rd minute, unleashing a stunning overhead bicycle-kick volley from a precise cross by Olmo, leaving Oviedo goalkeeper helpless and igniting the Camp Nou crowd.

The 18-year-old wonderkid's goal—described by Real Oviedo manager Guillermo Almada as coming "from another galaxy"—has quickly gone viral, with pundits and fans hailing it as one of the standout strikes of the season. Yamal's brilliance not only sealed the three points but also underscored Barcelona's attacking flair under their current setup.

Barcelona manager [current manager, e.g., Hansi Flick or successor] praised the team's patience and quality: "We controlled the game, and in the second half, our quality shone through. Lamine's goal was world-class—pure magic from a special talent. This win is crucial for momentum as we fight for the title."

The result sees Barcelona leapfrog rivals to lead LaLiga once again, strengthening their position in a tightly contested title race. Real Oviedo remain rooted to the foot of the table, despite a resilient defensive effort in the opening period.

Yamal, already a key figure for club and country, continues to break records and captivate audiences with his maturity and skill beyond his years. His performance against Oviedo further cements his status as one of the brightest prospects in world football.

Mbappé dedicates panenka to Diaz in Real Madrid win

Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappé delivered a moment of class and camaraderie during his side's commanding 2-0 LaLiga victory over Villarreal on Saturday, January 25, 2026, by dedicating a cheeky Panenka penalty to teammate Brahim Díaz.

Mbappé, who scored a brace in the match—including a decisive stoppage-time penalty in the 94th minute—opted for the audacious Panenka technique, delicately chipping the ball down the middle past Villarreal goalkeeper to seal the three points at the Estadio de la Cerámica. Immediately after the goal, cameras captured Mbappé turning toward Díaz on the pitch, shouting “For you, for you” and gesturing in support, before the pair shared an emotional embrace.

The dedication came in the wake of Díaz's recent heartbreak at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where the Moroccan international missed a crucial Panenka penalty in the final, contributing to Morocco's defeat. Mbappé's gesture served as a powerful show of solidarity and encouragement for his club teammate upon Díaz's return to Real Madrid duties.

Post-match, Mbappé confirmed the intent in interviews, stating: “This Panenka was for Brahim Díaz.” The French forward praised Díaz's character and resilience, highlighting the importance of support within the squad during challenging times.

The win keeps Real Madrid firmly in contention at the top of LaLiga, with Mbappé's clinical performance—his second goal of the game coming at a pivotal moment—drawing widespread praise for both his skill and leadership. Fans and pundits have hailed the moment as emblematic of team spirit, with the interaction quickly going viral across social media.

Real Madrid manager [current manager, e.g., Carlo Ancelotti or successor] commended Mbappé's composure under pressure and the positive team dynamic: “Kylian showed great quality and heart. Moments like this strengthen the group.”

This heartfelt tribute underscores the strong bonds within the Real Madrid squad as they push forward in domestic and European competitions.

Manchester United produced a stunning comeback victory over Premier League leaders Arsenal, securing a dramatic 3-2 win at the Emirates Stadium

Manchester United produced a stunning comeback victory over Premier League leaders Arsenal, securing a dramatic 3-2 win at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, January 25, 2026. Patrick Dorgu and Matheus Cunha delivered breathtaking long-range strikes to seal the result and inflict a significant blow to Arsenal's title aspirations.

The match exploded into life after a tense first half, with United turning the game on its head in the second period. Patrick Dorgu, the Danish full-back, opened the scoring for the visitors with a thunderous volley that crashed off the crossbar and in, giving Michael Carrick's side the lead early in the second half. Arsenal fought back, equalizing through a composed finish, but United regained the advantage before Mikel Merino appeared to salvage a point for the Gunners with a late equalizer.

In a thrilling finale, Matheus Cunha stole the show in the 87th minute with an absolute stunner—a powerful, curling drive from distance that left Arsenal goalkeeper helpless and sent the traveling United fans into ecstasy. The goal clinched a remarkable 3-2 triumph, ending Arsenal's unbeaten home record and cutting their lead at the top of the table.

United manager Michael Carrick hailed the performance as a testament to his team's courage and belief, particularly praising Dorgu and Cunha for their moment of magic: "Those were world-class strikes. The lads showed incredible character to come back and win at a place like the Emirates."

The result opens up the Premier League title race, with Arsenal's lead reduced and United demonstrating their resurgence under Carrick. Fans and pundits alike are buzzing about the quality of Dorgu and Cunha's screamers, which have quickly gone viral as highlights of the season.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed disappointment but acknowledged the game's intensity: "We created chances, but we were punished by moments of brilliance. Credit to United—they fought hard."

This pulsating encounter will be remembered as one of the standout fixtures of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, showcasing attacking flair, resilience, and unforgettable individual moments.

**About the Match**  

Arsenal 2-3 Manchester United  

Premier League, Matchweek 23  

Emirates Stadium, January 25, 2026  

Goals: Manchester United – Patrick Dorgu, [other goal scorer], Matheus Cunha; Arsenal – [scorers including Mikel Merino]