Valencia secured a dramatic 3-3 draw against Osasuna on Sunday night, with Nigerian international Umar Sadiq stealing the spotlight with a breathtaking goal.
The striker, currently on loan from Real Sociedad, delivered a stunning back-heel finish that has quickly gone viral, showcasing his immense talent.
Sadiq’s stunning double lifts Valencia
The match at El Sadar Stadium was an intense battle, with both sides pushing for victory.
Sadiq, who has been gradually rediscovering his form, played a pivotal role for Valencia.
The 28-year-old forward scored twice, with his second goal—a brilliant back-heel effort—impressing fans and pundits alike.
Osasuna had taken the lead early on, but Valencia fought back, with Sadiq leading the charge.
His first goal came from a well-timed run and precise finish, bringing his team level.
However, it was his second strike that stole the headlines, as he executed an audacious back-heel flick past the goalkeeper, leaving the Osasuna defence helpless.
Overcoming struggles to find form
Sadiq’s resurgence at Valencia comes after a challenging period in his career.
Following a €20 million transfer from Almería to Real Sociedad in 2022, the Nigerian striker endured a tough spell due to a serious knee injury that kept him sidelined for much of his first season.
His return to action was met with limited opportunities, prompting a January loan move to Valencia in search of regular playing time.
Despite his struggles at Sociedad, Sadiq’s record in Spain’s second division with Almería remains remarkable—43 goals in two seasons—and he is now beginning to replicate that form in La Liga.
A fresh start at Valencia
Since joining Los Che, Sadiq has started to rebuild his confidence, already scoring three goals in six La Liga appearances.
His first goal for Valencia came against Villarreal, and his latest double against Osasuna further highlights his potential to be a key figure for the club as they push for a strong finish to the season.
With his strength, technical ability, and instinct in front of goal, Sadiq is proving he can still be a major asset in Spain’s top flight.
If he continues on this trajectory, Valencia may consider making his loan move permanent.
As the season progresses, Umar Sadiq’s revival could be a crucial storyline, not only for Valencia but also for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures.
Umar Sadiq ⚽️ – Valencia
(4th Goal of the Season)#ValenciaCF #OsasunaValencia pic.twitter.com/I6j3MaYAHI— Goal Zone Center (@GoalZoneCenter) March 3, 2025
