4 goals in 5 La Liga matches: Sadiq sending the right message to Chelle ahead of final WCQ roster

Valencia striker Sadiq Umar is sending the right message to Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle ahead of his final squad announcement for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

The 2016 Rio Olympics bronze medalist is among the fourteen forwards named in the Super Eagles provisional squad list for the games against the Wasps and Warriors. 

Sadiq continued his rich vein of form as he helped his side secure a 2-1 victory over Real Valladolid at the Mestalla Stadium on Saturday evening, taking his tally in the Spanish top-flight to four goals in his last five games. 

The Nigerian international, who joined Los Che on loan from Real Sociedad in the winter transfer window, netted Valencia’s second goal in the 58th minute.

After receiving a precise pass from Enzo Barrenechea, Umar calmly slotted the ball past former Arsenal goalkeeper Karl Hein, sealing the win for his team.

Diego Lopez had earlier put Valencia ahead in the seventh minute, but the visitors responded before halftime when Juanmi Latasa found the equalizer five minutes before the break. 

However, Umar’s decisive strike in the second half ensured Valencia took all three points at home.

The 28-year-old striker has been in scintillating form, scoring four goals in his last four appearances against Villarreal, Atlético Madrid, CA Osasuna, and now Real Valladolid, underlining his growing influence in the Valencia attack.

With the season entering its final stretch, Umar will be eager to maintain his impressive performances, either to attract interest from Europe’s elite clubs or to prove his worth to Real Sociedad following his record-breaking transfer in 2022.

His form in the coming weeks could be crucial in shaping his future beyond this season.

Adeyemi Adewale

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com