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Umar Sadiq endured a night of extremes at the Mestalla as Valencia’s Copa del Rey journey came to a dramatic end against Athletic Bilbao, footynaija.com reports.
But that was not before the Nigerian striker wrote an unlikely chapter in the club’s history.
The Super Eagles forward found himself at the centre of both misfortune and redemption in a pulsating quarter-final that finished 2-1 in Bilbao’s favour.
In doing so, Sadiq became the first player in Valencia’s long involvement in Spanish competitions to score both an own goal and a goal for the club in the same match.
His evening began painfully midway through the first half when he attempted to clear a dangerous Bilbao free-kick.
Under pressure, his glancing touch diverted the ball beyond his own goalkeeper to hand the visitors the lead.
Mixed emotions for Jololo
— Ribs Media (@RibsMedia) February 4, 2026
Nigerian striker, Sadiq Umar becomes the first player in Valencia’s history to score a goal and an own goal in the same match across the entire history of Spanish tournaments.
It happened tonight against Athletic Bilbao. pic.twitter.com/pDn0rPkyP1
Yet Sadiq’s response was immediate and composed.
Ten minutes later, he capitalised on a costly error from Bilbao keeper Alex Padilla, reacting quickest to guide the loose ball into an empty net and level the contest. The strike reignited the home crowd and etched the striker’s name into Valencia folklore.
The feat also placed him among rare company in Spanish football, becoming the first La Liga player since Verza in 2015 to score both an own goal and a goal in a Copa del Rey tie.
Valencia pushed hard for a winner in normal time, with Sadiq’s physical presence troubling Bilbao’s defence as the hosts grew in confidence. But just as extra time seemed set to drift towards penalties, heartbreak struck.
Six minutes into added time, Iñaki Williams fired home the decisive goal to send Athletic Bilbao through and end Valencia’s cup hopes.
Despite the disappointment, Sadiq’s recent form offers optimism. His equaliser was his second Copa del Rey goal since returning during the winter window, following his earlier strike against Burgos.
After a difficult spell at Real Sociedad, the 27-year-old appears to be rediscovering rhythm and belief.
With crucial La Liga fixtures ahead, including a daunting meeting with Real Madrid, Valencia will be hoping Sadiq’s resilience and renewed sharpness can inspire their fight for top-flight survival.
