Copa del Rey: Osasuna 0 Valencia 2

12 December 2012 02:09

Valencia moved closer to a possible quarter-final tie with Real Madrid after a 2-0 first-leg win over Osasuna in the Copa del Rey on Tuesday.

Substitute Roberto Soldado struck what could be a crucial second away goal four minutes into extra time after Dani Parejo curled a free kick past goalkeeper Asier Riesgo.

The 2008 winners will hold the upper hand in next Tuesday's second leg at the Mestalla with new coach Ernesto Valverde earning a second win from his second match in charge.

Despite guiding Valencia to the last 16 of the Champions League Mauricio Pellegrino was shown the door and the change appears to have had a positive effect so far.

Valencia started the better with Parejo delivering a great cross for Jonas with his shot drawing a smart low save from Riesgo.

Parejo made the breakthrough shortly after with a delightful free kick over the wall and the home side clung to its 1-0 lead thanks to Valencia shot-stopper Diego Alves, who blocked efforts from Juan Martinez and Anthony Annan late in the second half.

Soldado made the home side pay when he came off the bench to tap home the second in injury time.