Real Sociedad's coach, Imanol Alguacil, didn't hold back his praise for Super Eagles' striker Sadiq Umar following their gritty 3-2 triumph over Granada last Saturday.
Umar, who's faced his fair share of challenges since joining Real Sociedad, including a season-ending injury early in his tenure, proved his mettle in the recent clash.
Despite being sparingly utilized by Alguacil, the 27-year-old seized his opportunity against Granada, netting the opener and setting the stage for victory.
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Alguacil's Satisfaction Over Umar's Performance
"There is no doubt that it (scoring) is very important. I am transmitting peace of mind to them (Umar and Silva), but in many games, as a result of anxiety, they have done things that they did not have to do," Alguacil remarked per Tribal football.
"Today, they have been calmer, which is why they have surely scored the goals. They come to them phenomenal, to feel important, because they have also served to add three points away from home."
Alguacil's words reflect a coach who's not just pleased with the result but also sees the potential in his players.
With Umar's goal injecting a dose of confidence into the squad, Alguacil hopes to maintain momentum as Real Sociedad pushes through the season's home stretch.
Currently positioned sixth in Laliga standings, they're eyeing a surge toward the Champions League spots, sitting 12 points adrift after 28 games.