Super Eagles striker Sadiq Umar endured a dramatic night, scoring an own goal before netting his first goal of the season, as Valencia crashed out of the Copa del Rey following a 2–1 defeat to Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday, Bold Sports reports.
The Nigerian international was involved in the opening goal of the contest in the 26th minute, unfortunately heading the ball into his own net while attempting to clear a dangerous free-kick sent into Valencia’s penalty area, giving the visitors an early lead.
Valencia responded swiftly, and Sadiq made amends less than 10 minutes later. The striker reacted quickest inside the box to tap the ball into an empty net after Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Alex Padilla failed to gather a cross, drawing the hosts level.
With the scores tied at halftime, Valencia pushed for a winner in the second half. Head coach Carlos Corberán made changes in the 59th minute, withdrawing Sadiq Umar for Hugo Duro, while defender José Copete made way for César Tárrega as the hosts went in search of a decisive goal.
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Athletic Bilbao were handed a golden opportunity to regain the lead in the 75th minute when they were awarded a penalty for a handball inside the box. However, Jauregizar’s spot-kick was saved by goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski to keep Valencia in the contest.
As the match appeared set for extra time, Athletic Bilbao struck in the dying minutes as Nico Williams delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, which Inaki Williams converted from close range to seal a late winner and secure Bilbao’s passage into the Copa del Rey semifinals.
The defeat marks a painful end to Valencia’s cup campaign, with focus now shifting to a huge La Liga clash against Real Madrid on Sunday as they look to bounce back quickly.
Athletic Bilbao, meanwhile, will carry the momentum from their dramatic victory into league action on Sunday when they host Levante, aiming to secure another positive result in front of their supporters.
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