Ivan Rakitic starred as Sevilla took a step towards the final with a first-leg win over Spanish rivals Valencia.

The Liverpool target played a part in Stephane Mbia's controversial opener before Carlos Bacca sealed victory as two goals inside four first-half minutes earned them an advantage to take into next week's second leg.

Mbia gave the home side the lead just after the half-hour mark with a cheeky back-heel from close range, although the on-loan QPR appeared to be offside after Daniel Carrico flicked on Rakitic's inswinging free-kick.

Sevilla doubled their advantage just three minutes later. Vitolo teed-up Bacca to slot past Vicente Guaita from inside the box.

Sevilla keeper Beto denied substitute Jonas from point-blank range late on to preserve the home side's cushion, moments before Eduardo Vargas headed off the crossbar as Valencia nearly scored a valuable away goal.

The visitors had started brightly with Joao Perreira testing Beto with a swerving shot from outside the area, but the hosts took control after that through Rakitic.

The Croatia midfielder's dangerous free kick was headed on to the far post where Mbia, who appeared to be offside, got turned around trying to reach it as it bounced through his legs before recovering to stick in a cheeky back-heel.

Valencia looked demoralised right after Victor Perez combined with Bacca to play the Colombian through to create a two-goal cushion.

Bacca was dangerous throughout, forcing Guaita into action, while the keeper also deniedFederico Fazio.

Sevilla midfielder Vicente Iborra headed over in stoppage time after Valencia's final flurry of chances.

Valencia must respond in next week's second leg at the Mestalla Stadium, with a place in the final in Italy on May 14 at stake.

Source: Daily Mail