Madrid eyeing historic triumph

Roberto Peragón's last-minute goal gave Rayo Vallecano a 1-0 win against Real Madrid CF in the second leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final, but it proved insufficient to deny the league champions a shot at history.

Firm favourites
Madrid, who are celebrating their centenary, reached the semi-finals by virtue of their 4-0 first-leg defeat of their capital neighbours. The UEFA Champions League contenders are firm favourites to win their 18th Copa del Rey title, especially as the final is to be held at their Santiago Bernabéu stadium.

Extra-time penalty
RC Deportivo La Coruña also made it through after a much tougher second leg at Real Valladolid. They needed a penalty from Diego Tristán in the second period of extra time to clinch a 3-2 aggregate victory. Deportivo had their 2-0 lead from the first leg wiped out inside 36 minutes as Valladolid struck through a Fernando header and a poacher's goal from Mario. Deportivo's troubles worsened when they had Enrique Romero sent off on 98 minutes.

Best football
Javier Irureta's side produced their best football after being reduced to ten men, however, and they clinched victory as Walter Pandiani was brought down in the box and Tristán stepped up to convert the spot-kick. Pandiani received his second yellow card two minutes from time but Deportivo managed to hold on.

Record breakers
Madrid could have another set of record breakers to contend with after minnows UE Figueres, who beat FC Barcelona in the second round, sealed their place in the last four with a goalless draw at home to Córdoba CF. They became the first club to do so from Spain's third tier after a 2-0 aggregate win. The semi-final lineup is completed by Athletic Club Bilbao who eased through with a 3-0 aggregate win over Villarreal CF on Tuesday.