Umar Sadiq sends strong message to Valencia teammates after derby win against Levante

Super Eagles and Valencia striker Sadiq Umar is hoping his team’s 2-0 win over Levante would spur them on in the La Liga standings, Afrik Foot reports.

Prior to last night’s goal against Levante, Sadiq’s last league goal came in Valencia’s 1-1 draw against Rayo Vallecano, back in April 2025.

Following an underwhelming first-half performance, Valencia coach Carlos Corberan sent Umar Sadiq on to replace Hugo Duro in the 58th minute, and the decision bore fruit.

Umar Sadiq celebrates after scoring his teams second goal during the match between Levante UD and Valencia CF — Umar Sadiq celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the match between Levante UD and Valencia CF. Photo by IMAGO

Six minutes later, Largie Ramazani broke the deadlock. Umar Sadiq’s backheel pass found Luis Rioja on the edge of Levante’s box. Rioja’s pass found Largie Ramazani, and the youngster volleyed the ball into the top corner.

The former Real Sociedad striker found the back of the net in the 84th minute. Javier Guerra’s clearance freed up space for the Nigerian attacker to tussle with a Levante defender.

The ex-Rangers man put his strength to good use before slotting the ball past Levante’s Mathew Ryan.

Umar Sadiq scored his team's second goal next to Matias Moreno — Umar Sadiq scored his team’s second goal next to Matias Moreno. Photo by IMAGO

Umar Sadiq urges Valencia to step up after Levante win

Sadiq’s goal sealed three points for Carlos Corberan’s men, and the victory took them out of the relegation spot for the first time in 2026.

As such, the Nigerian wants the win to serve as a turning point in Valencia’s season.

“Yes, it has actually been important [to win the game]. We know the strength of the group, of having a full group, and that is what will give us the strength to continue growing,” the ex-UD Almeria man said in quotes revealed by Eldesmarques.