Ghanaian attacker Ibrahim Sadiq defies height with remarkable heading record at AZ Alkmaar

The Ghanaian attacker once again showcased his unusual strength against Levski Sofia, scoring with a precise header shortly after the break to help his side secure 2-0 victory in the Europa Conference League qualifiers.

Sadiq’s ability to find the net with his head has become a defining trait of his game in the Netherlands.

Since making his AZ debut in September 2023, no player at the club has scored more headed goals, according to Opta.

His tally stands at four, with three of his last five goals all coming in the same fashion.

For a player whose stature might suggest difficulty competing aerially, the numbers tell a different story.

His timing, positioning, and determination have allowed him to thrive in situations where taller opponents often dominate.

Speaking after the match, the 24-year-old admitted he understands the surprise surrounding his aerial prowess but insisted it is no coincidence.
I understand it’s surprising that I score with a header because I’m not very tall, Sadiq told Ziggo Sport with a smile.

If you always train for it, it will pay off. I love scoring like that.

That dedication has clearly paid dividends. Countless hours of practice on the training ground have translated into decisive moments on the pitch, with his goal in Sofia once again proving crucial

AZ’s victory leaves them in a strong position to progress to the main stage of the competition, with Sadiq’s contributions central to their success.

The winger’s knack for scoring with his head has added a new dimension to AZ’s attack, giving defenders an unexpected challenge.

While opponents might assume his aerial threat to be minimal due to his height, Sadiq’s agility and anticipation regularly allow him to steal a march inside the penalty area.

For AZ, his consistency has been invaluable. For Sadiq himself, the record is a source of pride and a reminder that footballing attributes cannot be measured by height alone.

His story is becoming one of persistence and adaptation—turning what many might see as a limitation into a remarkable strength.

As AZ chase European progression, few players have embodied resilience and surprise quite like Ibrahim Sadiq, the diminutive winger who continues to rise above expectations—quite literally—one header at a time.

4 – Since making his club debut in September 2023, no AZ player scored more headed goals in all competitions than Ibrahim Sadiq (4), including three of his most recent five. Elastiq. pic.twitter.com/YCm4j4rKHe

— OptaJohan (@OptaJohan) August 21, 2025