Nigerian striker, Umar Sadiq, continued his scintillating run of form in LaLiga as he scored the match-winning goal in Valencia’s 2-1 victory over Real Valladolid at the Mestalla on Saturday.
The Nigerian striker’s fourth goal in seven LaLiga games this season helped lift Valencia out of the relegation zone, moving them to 16th place, ahead of Leganes on goal difference.
Sadiq, who has been in exceptional form since joining Valencia on loan from Real Sociedad in January, scored the decisive goal in the 58th minute, pouncing on a defensive mix-up to poke the ball beyond Valladolid’s goalkeeper.
This goal marked his fourth in his last four LaLiga matches, further solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s most in-form forwards.
Valencia had earlier taken the lead through Diego Lopez, whose right-footed strike found the bottom right corner of the net in the seventh minute.
However, Valladolid leveled the game in the 40th minute when Juanmi Latasa equalised with a similar right-footed shot.
Despite the setback, Sadiq’s sharp instincts ensured Valencia regained the lead after a defensive blunder from Valladolid.
The striker’s quick thinking and composed finish saw him take his tally to five goals in all competitions this season, marking a new career high for him in Spain’s top flight.
Since his arrival in January, the 27-year-old has played a pivotal role in Valencia’s recent resurgence, contributing to three wins, three draws, and one defeat.
His performances have been instrumental in helping the club stay out of the relegation zone as they continue their fight for survival in LaLiga.
Sadiq, who was named in Nigeria’s provisional squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, will look to continue his goal-scoring form as Valencia heads to Girona next Saturday for their next LaLiga clash.
