Real Zaragoza 1-0 Levante

Gabi's goal on the stroke of half-time was enough to give the Aragonese outfit only their third league win of the season, but it was a second straight home success for Javier Aguirre's side, who move above Levante into 18th place at La Liga's halfway stage.

The first half was a tight affair with little in the way of goalmouth action at either end.

Zaragoza had lost 4-0 at Espanyol last weekend to return to the foot of the table, while Levante came into this match on the back of three straight league defeats.

Both sides looked low in confidence early on, perhaps understandably, but it was Zaragoza who got the vital breakthrough just before the interval.

Gabi charged forward and unleashed a powerful drive from the edge of the box which Levante goalkeeper Manuel Reina was unable to keep out, despite getting a touch.

The second half was a one-sided affair, with Zaragoza missing numerous chances to extend their advantage.

Gabi, Braulio, Florent Sinama-Pongolle and Nicolas Bertolo all came close as the hosts visibly grew in confidence as the match wore on.

Levante had their moments as well, though, threatening through Valdo and Christian Stuani, who saw an effort brilliantly saved by Leo France late on.

After 19 rounds of matches, Levante are now second-bottom with 15 points - one less than Zaragoza, who are level with 17th-placed Sporting Gijon.