Umar Sadiq: Super Eagles star scores for and against Valencia as Athletic Club dump Los Che from Copa del Rey

Super Eagles star Umar Sadiq was both hero and villain as Athletic Club stunned Valencia 2–1 at the Mestalla to reach the Copa del Rey semi-finals. They triumphed through a dramatic late strike from Iñaki Williams, sealing victory after Sadiq had equalised an early own goal.

Athletic struck first in fortuitous fashion when Umar Sadiq’s attempted clearance turned into his own net in the 26th minute, giving the Basque side an early lead after sustained pressure. 

Valencia responded swiftly. In the 35th minute, Umar Sadiq made amends by finishing neatly from inside the box following a build-up down the right flank, drilling his shot past the Athletic goalkeeper to make it 1–1 and restore parity heading toward halftime. 

The second half saw both sides create openings but struggle to find a decisive breakthrough. Valencia’s attempts to capitalise on possession were often snuffed out by Athletic’s disciplined defence.

 The visitors looked dangerous on transitions and set plays. Athletic were awarded a penalty in the 73rd minute after César Tárrega was adjudged to have handled in the box, but Mikel Jauregizar’s spot-kick was superbly saved by Stole Dimitrievski, keeping the scores level.

With the game heading toward extra time, Iñaki Williams produced the decisive moment. In the 96th minute, the Athletic forward found space on the edge of the area and guided a composed finish past Dimitrievski to make it 2–1, prompting delirium among the travelling section of supporters and securing Athletic’s progression.