Nigerian striker Umar Sadiq netted his first league goal since completing a permanent move to Valencia last month in their 2-0 win over Levante on Sunday, SportPremi reports.
After a goalless first half in the keenly contested La Liga encounter, Los Che scored twice in the second half to complete a stunning victory and move up to 14th on the standings, although they are just two points above the drop zone.
Meanwhile, Levante remained in 19th position and are seven points from safety heading into the business end of the season.
Sodiq makes impact as Valencia claim crucial win
Both teams started the day in the relegation zone, but Valencia will be the happier side after moving up the standings with their win.
Sadiq had already scored twice in the Copa del Rey, but was waiting to open his account in the league, following his move to the club on a second stint last month.
Levante started on the front foot and almost went in front, but Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski was equal to the task.
Both sides then traded several chances to open the scoring, but the first half remained goalless.
Sadiq entered the fray in the second half and had a hand in the opening goal as his backheel found Luis Rioja, who passed to Largie Ramazani to break the deadlock with a stunning finish in the 64th minute.
The Nigerian forward got his goal in the 84th minute with a brilliant individual effort as he overpowered a defender to a long ball and had a free run at goal, before finishing emphatically into the corner.
Levante then had Kevin Arriaga sent off in stoppage-time, as Valencia sealed a hard fought win over the relegation rivals.
What next for Valencia?
Valencia return to league action next Sunday, when they face Champions League hopefuls Villarreal at the Estadio de la Ceramica.
