Real Sociedad manager Sergio Francisco has praised Nigerian forward Umar Sadiq after the striker delivered a game-changing performance in the White and Blues 2–0 victory over Reus FC in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday night.

Sadiq, introduced in the second half, made an immediate impact by assisting the opening goal and then scoring the second to seal Sociedad’s progression. 

The Super Eagles star set up Mikel Goti for the breakthrough in the 49th minute before winning and converting a penalty to double the advantage at the Estadi Municipal de Reus.

The goal marked Sadiq’s first strike in 228 days, his last coming on April 19 against Rayo Vallecano during his loan spell at Valencia in a 1–1 draw against Rayo Vallecano. 

The drought, combined with a difficult start to the season following an unsuccessful attempt to secure a summer transfer, made Wednesday’s performance especially significant.

Speaking after the match, Francisco hailed the Nigerian’s influence and the physical edge he brought into the game.

"Sadiq is Sadiq, whenever he comes on to play in recent matches he brings something to the table,” Francisco was quoted as saying by AS.

“And today he brought strength, the ability to challenge, the ability to put a player in the back line who wins balls for us, who flicks them on, who always threatens the opponent, who if we get down the wings and attack the area can be a decisive player, and he was also the one who got the penalty that gave us peace of mind.”

The showing will be a huge boost for the 28-year-old, who is now aiming to build momentum and fight for more regular minutes at Real Sociedad. 

With the January transfer window approaching, Sadiq will be hoping his resurgence can either cement his place in the squad or attract renewed interest from potential suitors.

Adeyemi Adewale