Valencia coach lauds Sadiq in relegation fight

Valencia coach Carlos Corberán has hailed the growing influence of Super Eagles striker Sadiq Umar after his decisive contribution in Los Che’s 2-1 victory over Girona at the Mestalla on Saturday.

Sadiq, who has steadily grown in importance since joining Valencia in January, delivered another big performance in a crucial relegation battle, scoring the second goal that proved pivotal in a tense La Liga encounter.

Valencia had taken the lead early in the second half through Largie Ramazani in the 50th minute, before Sadiq doubled the advantage just six minutes later to ease nerves inside the Mestalla and give the hosts control of the contest.

Girona responded through Joel Roca to set up a nervy finish, but Valencia held firm to secure all three points—an outcome that significantly boosts their survival hopes.

Corberán, speaking after the game, praised both the team’s resilience and Sadiq’s timely intervention, noting the psychological impact of the striker’s goal in a tightly contested match.

“It was a very difficult match. We knew it would be because Girona are so hard to control; they dominate possession,” Corberán said.

“They tried something different today, but our players’ energy was key. We had more control in the second half and were the better team until the second goal. When you desperately need points, a goal like that affects you emotionally.”

The result lifts Valencia to 12th on the La Liga table, five points clear of the relegation zone with five matches remaining. With their position improving, Los Che are now edging closer to mathematical safety, needing a couple more wins to secure top-flight status.

Remarkably, the late-season surge has also opened the door to an unexpected push for European qualification, with Valencia just five points adrift of a UEFA Conference League spot.

Sadiq’s strike against Girona marked his second goal in as many matches, taking his tally to five since arriving from Real Sociedad in January. The Nigerian forward will be aiming to sustain his form as Valencia’s survival push reaches its decisive stage.