Madrid: Real Madrid virtually took a big step towards the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey with a 2-0 win over Osasuna in the first leg of their last-16 tie.
Both teams fielded strong sides for the game on Thursday and Real opened the scoring after 19 minutes when Karim Benzema finished off a good ball from the left, which was sent over by Luka Modric.
Madrid enjoyed the better of the game, but it was not until past the hour when they doubled their lead when a poor backpass from Osasuna captain Patxi Punal allowed Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo to set up youngster Jese Rodriguez to score his side’s second.
The goal confirmed Jese’s excellent moment of form and the youngster is winning over the fans even as fellow striker, Alvaro Morata, said he would not close the door to an exit if he didn’t get any opportunities to show his ability at the club.
Jese’s night ended in the 69th minute as he was replaced by Isco after suffering what appeared to be a muscle injury.
There were no further goals but Madrid have a comfortable cushion to take to next week’s return leg in Pamplona.
At the same time Rayo Vallecano drew with Levante 0-0. Earlier in the day, Real Sociedad and Villarreal also drew 0-0.
Wednesday saw Barcelona beat Getafe 4-0, while Real Betis defeated Athletic Bilbao 1-0 and Alcorcon beat Espanyol 1-0.
Cup holders Atletico Madrid drew 1-1 away to Valencia on Tuesday. (IANS)