For Umar Sadiq, Saturday night at the Santiago Bernabéu was more than just another game — it was redemption.

The Nigerian striker, on loan at Valencia from Real Sociedad, finally put an end to his Real Madrid curse, helping Los Che pull off a stunning 2-1 victory — their first win at the iconic stadium since 2008.

Having faced Real Madrid three times in the past without a single point or goal to his name, Sadiq walked onto the pitch with a point to prove. He may not have found the net, but his energy and movement up front caused constant problems for Madrid’s defense, and he came agonizingly close to scoring, only to be denied by a fantastic save from Fran González in the second half.

Valencia struck first in the 15th minute, as Mouctar Diakhaby powered home a header from a corner. Madrid came back strong after the break, with Vinícius Júnior leveling things up after linking with Jude Bellingham.

Just as the game seemed destined for a draw, Sadiq was replaced by Rafa Mir — a substitution that would prove pivotal. In the dying moments, Mir surged down the right and delivered a perfect cross for Hugo Duro, who calmly slotted home the winner, sending the visiting fans into delirium.

The win dealt a serious blow to Real Madrid’s title hopes, leaving them trailing Barcelona by three points, and finally ended Valencia’s 17-year wait for a Bernabéu victory.

For Sadiq, it wasn’t just about the scoreline. It was about breaking a personal barrier, proving his worth in one of football’s grandest arenas, and writing a small but significant chapter in Nigerian football history.