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Alhassane Keita's goal gave struggling Real Mallorca a 1-0 first-leg advantage over Real Betis in their Copa del Rey quarter-final.

The Guinean forward evaded two defenders chasing a long ball over the top to score midway through the second-half.

Financially-troubled Mallorca's Cup run is a welcome distraction from La Liga, where they are second bottom without a win since late October.

Earlier, Athletic Bilbao's Fernando Llorente missed a first-half penalty as his side were held to a 0-0 home draw by Sporting Gijon in the first leg.

The lanky striker had the perfect chance to break the deadlock after going down to win a dubious spot kick but he blazed his effort high and wide.

Bilbao were put under constant pressure by the visitors in an open game but the 23-times Cup winners held firm to extend their unbeaten run to 10 games in all competitions.

On Wednesday, holders Valencia beat 2007 winners Sevilla 3-2 at the Mestalla and Espanyol held city rivals Barcelona 0-0 at home. The second legs are next week.

Espanyol or Barca will play Mallorca or Betis for a place in May's final and Valencia or Sevilla will take on Bilbao or Sporting.

Reuters