Umar Sadiq statement: Super Eagles striker proves Eric Chelle right with first goal in 9 months

Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq wasted no time proving his worth after earning his spot in Nigeria’s provisional squad for AFCON 2025.

Coming off the bench for Spanish LaLiga side Real Sociedad, the Nigerian forward delivered a stunning goal and assist masterclass during their crucial 2-0 Copa del Rey victory against Reus, sending a strong message that he’s ready to carry his red-hot club form onto Africa’s biggest stage in Morocco.

With the match goalless at halftime, Real Sociedad’s coach brought Sadiq on to inject fresh energy, and the impact was immediate.

Just four minutes after entering, Sadiq set up Barrene’s pinpoint cross, brilliantly assisting Goti’s powerful left-foot finish to break the deadlock.

As Reus fought to stay alive, Sociedad earned a penalty deep into added time. The spotlight was on Sadiq, who calmly stepped up and converted, marking his first goal for Real Sociedad since April.

His confident finish sealed the victory and capped a standout performance from the bench.

This explosive showing arrives just days after coach Eric Chelle named Sadiq among the 54-man provisional squad heading to AFCON 2025.

His mix of clinical finishing and creative play makes him a serious candidate to be Nigeria’s X-factor in the tournament.

After missing the failed 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Umar Sadiq’s response to national team pressure is clear: he’s ready to turn promise into impact.

As he sparks Real Sociedad’s Copa run with decisive contributions, Nigerian fans can eagerly anticipate him lighting up the big AFCON stage this December.