Umar Sadiq’s sensational backheel strike for Valencia against Osasuna has been named La Liga’s Goal of the Month for March—his first time winning the award.
The Nigerian forward, currently on loan at Valencia from Real Sociedad, produced a moment of sheer brilliance at El Sadar Stadium to rescue a dramatic 3-3 draw for Los Che.
With just two minutes remaining on the clock and Valencia trailing 3-2, Sergi Canós whipped in a cross.
Sadiq, with his back to goal, met the ball mid-air and executed a stunning backheel finish past the helpless Osasuna goalkeeper.
His technical execution, composure, and awareness in such a high-pressure moment earned widespread praise and ultimately won him the league’s top goal award for the month.
It was a deserved recognition for a player who has been gradually finding his rhythm since making the switch to Valencia in the January transfer window.
Sadiq’s strike beat two other standout efforts in the final voting stage: Diego García’s overhead kick for CD Leganés against Getafe, and Andrei Rațiu’s long-range rocket for Rayo Vallecano in the clash with Sevilla.
The previous winner of the award was Real Betis full-back Romain Perraud, who took home the honour for his performance in February.
Despite his recent club heroics, Sadiq was overlooked at the international level. He was an unused substitute.
With the international break now behind him, Sadiq will hope his stunning form helps Valencia chase a strong finish in La Liga.
