Nigerian international Sadiq Umar made an immediate impact as he scored Valencia CF’s only goal in their opening pre-season fixture of the 2026/27 campaign, despite the Spanish side falling to a 3-1 defeat against Angolan champions Petro de Luanda on Saturday.
The friendly, played at the Royalverd Training Center in Girona, marked Valencia’s first outing under head coach Carlos Corberán as preparations continue for the new La Liga season.
Umar provided the highlight for Los Che, finding the back of the net to briefly lift his side during an otherwise difficult afternoon against a well-organised Petro de Luanda team.
The goal continues the Nigerian striker’s impressive run of form since completing a permanent move to Valencia from Real Sociedad in January 2026.
After initially arriving on loan, the 29-year-old Super Eagles forward convinced the club to secure his services permanently in a deal reportedly worth between €3 million and €4.5 million. He repaid that faith during the second half of the 2025/26 season, scoring six goals in 19 LaLiga appearances to help Valencia avoid relegation.
One of the standout moments of his campaign came with a spectacular backheel finish against Osasuna, a goal that earned him LaLiga Goal of the Month recognition and further endeared him to the Valencia supporters.
Renowned for his physical strength, aerial dominance, and intelligent hold-up play, Umar has quickly become an important figure in Valencia’s attack. Following the permanent transfer, the Nigerian expressed his delight at remaining at Mestalla, describing the club as the ideal environment to continue developing his career.
Saturday’s encounter also gave Carlos Corberán the opportunity to assess several new and returning players as Valencia concluded the first phase of their pre-season training camp before returning to the Ciutat Esportiva de Paterna.
The Spanish side will now continue preparations with additional friendly matches against CD Eldense and CD Castellón as they build towards the start of the new LaLiga campaign.
For the Super Eagles, Umar’s continued goalscoring form is another encouraging sign ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming international fixtures. The experienced striker remains one of the country’s most reliable attacking options, providing depth, experience, and a proven goalscoring threat for the national team.
Although Valencia suffered defeat, Umar’s performance was a positive takeaway for both club and country, reinforcing his importance as the team looks to enjoy a stronger campaign after recent seasons of transition.
Sadiq Umar’s goal may not have prevented defeat, but it provided another reminder of the Nigerian striker’s growing influence at Valencia as he looks to carry his momentum into the new LaLiga season.
