Valencia coach Carlos Corberan has praised Super Eagles striker Sadiq Umar following his crucial goal in their hard-fought 2-1 victory over Girona on Saturday, Soccernet.ng reports.
Sadiq was the unsung hero for Los Che as they continued their push for La Liga survival at the Mestalla on Saturday. The 29-year-old striker was handed a starting role, with Corberan favoring him over Spanish forward Hugo Duro—and Sadiq delivered.
After Largie Ramazani gave Valencia the lead in the 50th minute, Sadiq doubled the advantage just six minutes later, providing a vital cushion to settle Los Che nerves.
Sadiq Umar of Valencia Copyright: ImagoxJosexTorresx
Although Girona eventually pulled one back through Joel Roca, the match ended 2-1. This result lifted Valencia to 12th in the standings, five points clear of the relegation zone with five games remaining. To secure their top-flight status, Valencia likely need just two more wins from their final fixtures.
Incredibly, they can even afford to dream big; they currently sit only five points behind a UEFA Conference League qualification spot. A strong finish to the season could remarkably see them secure European football.
Corberan Hails Sadiq Umar's Impact
Valencia coach Carlos Corberan (Photo credit: Imago)
After the final whistle, a visibly relieved Carlos Corberan was upbeat. The victory ensures that Valencia and their supporters can breathe a little easier heading into the final five games of the season.
In the post-match press conference, Corberan spoke about the significance of Sadiq's goal, noting that it took the wind out of Girona's sails.
“It was a very difficult match. We knew it would be because Girona are so hard to control; they dominate possession,” Corberan said.
“They tried something different today, but our players' energy was key. We had more control in the second half; I think we were the better team until the second goal. When you desperately need points, a goal like that affects you emotionally.”
Umar Sadiq of Valencia CF Copyright: ImagoxIvanxTerronx
Sadiq's strike on Saturday marked his second goal in as many games. It brings his tally to five since his January move from Real Sociedad, and he will be eager to maintain this rich vein of form for Corberan's side.
Kelvin Omachonu is a professional football columnist and sports writer with over half a decade of experience covering major events and delivering captivating, analytically-driven stories.
A graduate of the University of Ibadan, he is fueled by a profound dedication to sports journalism and the beautiful game. His insights have previously been featured in respected outlets, including IndyPress UI, UCJ UI Newshive NG, Sportpremi, and a few others.
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