Real Zaragoza earn late Levante win in Copa del Rey

Real Zaragoza have earned a late 1-0 win over Levante in the first leg of their Copa del Rey last-16 tie at the Estadio Ciudad de Valencia.

Carlos Aranda struck in the second minute of injury time to give Manuel Jimenez's side a vital away goal.

The best chance of the opening half came Zaragoza's way in the 23rd minute as Aranda had his effort blocked by a heroic Hector Rodas.

The visitors started the second half strongly and they had a goal ruled out just before the hour when the referee blew for an infringement following Cristian Sapunaru's finish.

The match was heading for a draw before Aranda chipped the ball over goalkeeper Keylor Navas to seal a first-leg triumph.

Zaragoza welcome Levante to La Romareda for the return leg on January 9.