Super Eagles forward Sadiq Umar continued his fine scoring form in the Copa del Rey, finding the net for Valencia despite a dramatic 2-1 defeat to Athletic Bilbao at the Mestalla Stadium on Wednesday night.

The Nigerian striker endured a mixed evening, first conceding an own goal before redeeming himself with a well-taken equaliser. 

Athletic Bilbao took the lead after Sadiq, attempting to clear a free-kick delivery into the box, inadvertently headed the ball into his own net, much to the disappointment of the home supporters.

Valencia drew level in the 35th minute when Sadiq capitalised on a costly error from Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Alex Padilla. 

The Super Eagles forward reacted quickest to slot the ball into an empty net, celebrating with visible relief in front of the Mestalla faithful.

Just when the contest appeared destined for extra time, Ghanaian striker Iñaki Williams struck the winner for the visitors, scoring almost with the last kick of the game, six minutes into added time, to seal victory for Athletic Bilbao.

Despite the loss, Sadiq will take encouragement from his performance. The goal was his second for Valencia in the Copa del Rey since rejoining the club during the winter transfer window following a difficult start to the season with Real Sociedad. 

He had previously scored in Valencia’s 2-0 win over Burgos CF, a result that secured their passage to the quarter-finals.

The Nigerian international, who enjoyed a decent spell on loan at Valencia last season, will be hoping to rediscover his best form following his return. 

Sadiq will now turn his attention to La Liga, where he will be eager to maintain his momentum when Valencia host Real Madrid as they continue their battle to stay in the Spanish top flight.

Adeyemi Adewale