GistReel
Sadiq Umar scored his first La Liga goal of the season as Valencia CF secured a 2-0 derby victory over Levanteon Sunday.
The Nigerian striker, who joined Valencia permanently from Real Sociedad in January, came off the bench in the 58th minute and sealed the result late on to hand his side a vital three points.
Valencia strike on the counter
A cagey first half produced limited chances, with only one effort on target between both teams. Valencia eventually broke the deadlock in the 64th minute through Largie Ramazani, who finished a swift counter-attack with a volley into the top corner.
Umar doubled the advantage 20 minutes later. The forward dispossessed a Levante defender in midfield, drove forward and calmly slotted past the goalkeeper to complete another quick transition move.
The goal wrapped up the derby and marked Umar’s fourth strike in all competitions this season, and his second in three matches.
Late red card compounds Levante woes
Levante’s frustrations deepened in the closing stages when midfielder Kervin Arriaga was sent off.
After receiving a yellow card for a foul, he applauded the referee’s decision and was shown a second booking for dissent.
The result lifts Valencia to 14th place in the La Liga standings with 26 points, two clear of the relegation zone. Levante remain 19th with 18 points from 23 matches.
Valencia travel to face Villarreal CF next Sunday, with Umar aiming to build on his recent return to form.