Super Eagles 11-cap star wins point for club but bags suspension

Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq won another crucial point for Valencia today, as Los Che continue their drive further away from the relegation places and towards possible qualification for European football. 

Cesar Tarrega’s own goal gave Rayo Vallecano the lead just before half time. However, on the 75th minute mark, Sadiq scored his 5th goal of the season to help Carlos Corberan's side draw 1-1. 

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Valencia dominated the early stages. Hugo Duro had a promising chance, but his shot flew wide. Rayo nearly took the lead through Jorge de Frutos' powerful header, but Giorgi Mamardashvili made a spectacular save.

The deadlock was broken just before halftime when César Tarrega scored an own goal, nodding Pedro Diaz's cross into his own net under pressure from Randy Nteka. In the second half, Valencia started strongly, but Mamardashvili made crucial saves to deny Alvaro García and others.

Valencia equalised with 20 minutes remaining when Umar Sadiq poked home a rebound after his initial shot hit the post. 

The point the Nigerian won for Los Che today was the sixth he has won for them this season, underscoring his importance and the success of his transfer. 

However, they will not be able to count on him for the midtable six-pointer against Espanyol on Tuesday at Mestalla, as Sadiq also picked up his 5th yellow card of the season, which effectively earned him a one-match suspension.