Speaking after the 1-0 defeat to CD Leganés at Butarque, goalkeeper Jaume Domenech assessed a result that represents a setback for Valencia CF’s European ambitions.

“We knew that the game today was a final, and that we had to take the three points  for our objective. The first chance that they had, from the penalty, punished us. We weren't able to create chances; we tried, but they closed up at the back and we weren't able to make opportunities. The missed penalty from us was a big blow as well. We couldn't afford to fail today,” said the shot stopper, who lamented that the team could not make the most of a numerical advantage.

“It was a blow, but we had the entire second half with an extra man to create more chances. We need to reflect now. We have two 'finals' remaining, and we need to do what we can to achieve our objective when the league season ends.

“There are no excuses. Our obligation is to try to fight until the end -and hope that one of our rivals slips up.”

Next for Valencia CF is a meeting with already-relegated RCD Espanyol, in which a win is of vital importance.

“The only thing that we can do now is focus on the game against Espanyol. We will be trying to win, because that's the only result that will do from those two games,” said Jaume.