“It doesn’t matter who scores” – Nigerian forward Awoniyi reacts to becoming Union Berlin’s Bundesliga record goalscorer

Thirteen top-flight goals in less than a year-and-half with the Iron Ones has pushed one of Nigeria’s most in-form strikers at the moment into the club’s record books

Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi has expressed his delight at becoming Union Berlin’s highest goalscorer in Bundesliga history.

Before last weekend, the 24-year-old forward was at par with German star Max Kruse on 12 top-flight goals for a side that only got promoted for the first time to the elite division three years ago.

But Awoniyi took the honour outright when he capitalised on a defensive blunder to slot home the opening goal in Union Berlin’s 2-0 win over city rivals Hertha Berlin on Sunday.

More than his eighth Bundesliga goal of the campaign, Awoniyi was pleased to help Union Berlin fans secure the bragging rights over their next-door neighbours.

“It’s a good feeling to know that we won the first Berlin derby of the season,” the former Liverpool signing told the Bundesliga.com.

“I think for Union, everyone is important.”

While on loan from Liverpool last term, Awoniyi found the back of the net five times in 21 appearances. The Nigerian international has added eight in 12 games this season to make up the 13 goals that have seen him become Union Berlin’s record goalscorer in the Bundesliga.

Despite his new status, Awoniyi remains humble, insisting that he is happier when the Iron Ones achieve their set targets. 

Awoniyi added: “It doesn’t matter who scores. For me, I score so that the team can be successful. Once we are successful, I think I’m happy, and I’m glad about that.”

The German Bundesliga is not Awoniyi’s only stomping ground. The one-cap Super Eagles striker has hit four goals in the Europa Conference League and group stage and one goal in the DFB Pokal.

This brings his total in all competitions to 13 goals in 20 matches so far this season.