Xavi's late equalizer brings FC Barcelona 1-1 draw in Copa del Rey

Thu, 02/28/2008 2:44 PM  |  Sports

MADRID (AP): Xavi Hernandez's injury-time equalizer brought FC Barcelona a 1-1 draw with Valencia in the Copa del Rey semifinal first leg on Wednesday.

Samuel Eto'o appeared to handle before firing a shot which was parried by Valencia goalkeeper Timo Hildebrand and midfielder Xavi drove in the rebound.

Striker David Villa gave the visitors the lead in the 70th minute when he turned home a low cross from the right by substitute Javier Arizmendi, giving Valencia a slight advantage for the second leg at its Mestalla Stadium on March 19 or 20.

Valencia's draw made for a satisfactory return to Camp Nou for coach Ronald Koeman, who helped Barcelona win the 1992 Champions League final by scoring the winning goal against Sampdoria at
Wembley.

Barcelona, whose draw extend its unbeaten run in all competitions to 15 matches, is aiming to add to its record 24 triumphs in Spain's knockout competition, the last of which came a decade ago.

In the other semifinal on Thursday, Getafe bids to boost its hopes of repeating last season's debut appearance in the final when it hosts Racing Santander.

The final will be played on April 16 at an as yet unspecified venue.

Barcelona's lineup featured France striker Thierry Henry and Portugal midfielder Deco although Ronaldinho was rested.

Valencia started with its two recent midfield signings, Hedwiges Maduro and Ever Banega.

Barcelona struggled to create chances before halftime although it almost took an early lead when Xavi, Eto'o and Lionel Messi all had goalbound shots blocked in quick succession in the sixth minute. (***)

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