Malaga took a huge stride towards a place in the Champions League group stages with a 2-0 win over Panathinaikos in their qualifying first leg this evening.
The Spanish side showed no signs of the financial problems which have blighted their pre-season preparations as they made a strong start to the match.
Early pressure told for the La Liga side as they opened the scoring through veteran Argentine defender Martin Demechelis, who reacted quickest to Joaquin's corner.
Manuel Pellegrini's team grew in confidence and controlled possession throughout the match.
Malaga took a deserved 2-0 lead as Enzo Maresca and Isco combined to feed Eliseu, who made no mistake from close range.
Panathinaikos failed to find a crucial away goal in the second half and have it all to do in next week's second leg.
Liam Power
