Copa del Rey wrap: Valencia edge Sevilla

Valencia beat Sevilla 1-0 in the Copa del Rey on Thursday while Cordoba overcame Espanyol 2-1.

In the first-leg of round of 16 ties, Valencia claimed the upper hand with their win in front of their home fans at the Mestalla.

Jonas was the star of the show for Unai Emery’s side and he was only denied by the woodwork on 18 minutes.

The talented midfielder did score on 33 minutes though as he showed quick feet before curling his shot past Sevilla goalkeeper Andres Palop.

Valencia had further chances to score with Jordi Alba and Jonas both going close and they were nearly made to pay by the visitors.

Jesus Navas was always a threat on the counterattack and his cross was headed into the bar by Manu Del Moral as Sevilla were denied an equaliser.

They will still feel confident though, with the second leg to take place at their home ground.

In the other match on Thursday, second-tier outfit Cordoba won their home leg 2-1.

Sergio Garcia scored after 39 minutes for Espanyol but the sending off of their goalkeeper Francisco Casilla just after half-time changed the complexion of the match.

And goals in the last 10 minutes from Borja Garcia and Carlos Caballero gave Cordoba victory.