UMAR Sadiq continued his blistering form in front of goal, scoring his third straight goal as Valencia secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Real Valladolid at the Mestalla on Saturday.
The Nigerian striker, who has now found the back of the net four times in his last four outings, also claimed the Man of the Match award for his performance.
Sadiq’s impact has been undeniable since joining Valencia on loan in January. After breaking his duck against Osasuna, the former Almería man endured a blank against Atlético Madrid before bouncing back with a brace last weekend.
His latest goal against Valladolid proved to be the winner, reinforcing his status as Valencia’s talisman in their fight to avoid relegation.
Valencia will enter the new week outside the LaLiga relegation zone after a hard-fought win over basement side Real Valladolid, with goals either side of a defensive blunder sealing three crucial points.
Los Ches wasted little time asserting themselves, taking the lead in just the seventh minute. A swift counter from a cleared corner saw José Gayà link up with Sadiq, whose clever movement and vision set up Diego López for a composed finish into the bottom-right corner.
The goal marked López’s fifth of the campaign and gave Valencia the early momentum they craved.
Sadiq had a golden opportunity to provide an assist when he latched onto a quickly taken free-kick, driving a cross toward the far post, but under pressure, Enzo Barrenechea fired wide.
Moments later, Valencia were punished for their wastefulness. A misjudged backpass from David Torres put goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili under unnecessary pressure, leading to a botched clearance that allowed Juanmi Latasa to slot home Valladolid’s equaliser, his effort slipping between Mamardashvili’s legs.
Having endured a frustrating first half, Sadiq was determined to make amends. His persistence paid off in the 58th minute when Barrenechea won possession in midfield and lofted a perfectly weighted ball over the top.
Timing his run to perfection, Sadiq held off his marker before poking home past the advancing goalkeeper, sealing a vital three points for Valencia.
Valladolid came close to an immediate response, with Latasa’s header forcing a strong save from Mamardashvili, but that was as close as the visitors came to salvaging a result.
Valencia managed the closing stages with composure, nearly extending their lead when César Tárrega’s header struck the woodwork in stoppage time.
Carlos Corberán’s side have now won four of their last five home matches, moving them just a point clear of the relegation zone. Meanwhile, Valladolid’s survival hopes are all but extinguished, with a 16-year winless streak at Mestalla stretching further following their ninth straight-away defeat.
