Nigerian forward Sadiq Umar was at the centre of both celebration and controversy as he netted for the second consecutive game to help Valencia secure a crucial 2-1 victory over Girona at Mestalla on Saturday in LaLiga action.

Sadiq continued his strong run of form, finding the back of the net once again to strengthen Valencia’s push for vital points in a tightly contested league campaign. 

His goal proved decisive in a match that swung in intensity and was marked by heated officiating discussions.

However, the forward’s night could have been even more influential, as he was denied what many inside Mestalla believed was a clear penalty in the first half. 

In the 16th minute, Sadiq was involved in a key incident inside the Girona penalty area when he appeared to be pulled by defender Daley Blind as he attempted to meet a cross. 

The contact disrupted his movement, and he went to ground, but play continued without a spot-kick being awarded.

Valencia players immediately surrounded referee Alejandro Muñiz Fernández, strongly appealing for a penalty, while captain José Gayà led the protests, according to Super Deporte.

Despite the on-field appeals, VAR official Valentín Pizarro Gómez chose not to recommend a review of the incident, allowing the original decision to stand.

The decision sparked frustration among Valencia supporters and added to growing scrutiny around VAR consistency in LaLiga, particularly involving recent matches where similar incidents have gone unpunished for the club.

Despite the setback, Valencia responded strongly and ultimately secured all three points with goals from Largie Ramazani and Umar Sadiq, while Girona pulled one back through Joel Roca. 

Girona were unable to recover fully from Valencia’s attacking pressure, as the home side managed to protect their lead until the final whistle.

Wale Adejumo