Valencia 1-2 Real Zaragoza

Surprise in the Mestalla as Zaragoza refuse to lose, and end up victorious with nine men.

A historic game for Real Zaragoza who are fighting relegation in last place as they win away from home with ultimately nine men. Valencia pushed and pushed but could not find an answer. Disappointing loss, especially after winning in San Mamés against Athletic Bilbao.

It was eight minutes until the first goal, Roberto Soldado had a great play and assist to Pablo Hernández, who finished.

In the 20th minute, Pablo Alvarez receives a red card for a foul on Aduriz when he was facing the keeper.

In the 28th minute,  Dealbert gave away a penalty for a hand-ball. The central defender protested the call, but it was still given. Apoño scored the penalty a couple of minutes later.

Valencia remained attacking but could not find the net.

The second half had many chances with Soldado and Aduriz. Many crosses were fed to Aduriz, but he failed to head them home. Soldado could not score either. Jonas was also close to scoring, but hit post and it went out. As time went on Valencia began to rush and lose patience. A frustrated Valencia, forgot about the dangerous counter attack that Zaragoza possesses.

Dealbert lost the ball to Lafita who began a strong run down the field against Rami and Dealbert. Lafita passed it to Apoño who scores for the second time in the 76th minute. Valencia were shocked and the fans at Mestalla showed their frustration.

Valencia grew more impatient and seemed to get closer to the equalizer, but it was not their night.

In the 88th minute, Real Zaragoza were reduced to nine men after Zuculini got sent off. With a two man advantage, Valencia were sure to get the equalizer but with five minutes of stoppage time, it did not come.

Valencia lost a shocking and disappointing game to a nine-man, last place Zaragoza who did not give in. Valencia dominated the game, but were not able to make their chances count. Levante are now only three points behind Valencia after beating Real Sociedad.

Valencia CF: Guaita, Barragán, Rami, Dealbert, Mathieu (Jordi Alba, min. 60), Albelda (Feghouli, min. 70), Parejo, Pablo (Piatti, min. 80), Aduriz, Jonas and Soldado.

Real Zaragoza: Roberto, Álvarez, Paredes, Lanzaro, Abraham (Luis García, min. 75), Apoño, Dujmovic, Pintér, Juan Carlos (Zuculini, min. 49), Lafita and Aranda (Obradovic, min.64).