Jonas makes point for Valencia

Substitute Jonas struck an 82nd-minute equaliser to salvage a 1-1 draw for Valencia against Osasuna.

Substitute Jonas struck an 82nd-minute equaliser to salvage a point for Valencia and deny Osasuna a much-awaited home victory on Saturday. The hosts appeared poised to snap their four-game winless streak at El Sadar stadium after Oriol Riera had put Osasuna ahead in the 19th minute. However, Jonas' late show secured a 1-1 draw and ensured Valencia avoided heading into this week's Europa League semi-final first leg at Sevilla on the back of a defeat. The point will nevertheless satisfy Osasuna coach Javi Gracia, whose side are three points clear of the relegation zone with four games remaining. Osasuna enjoyed a strong start and went ahead in the 19th minute. A poor clearence from Valencia goalkeeper Vicente Guaita proved an assist for Riera, who fired the ball into the back of the net from close range. The home side should have doubled their lead midway through the first half but Alvaro Cejudo fired high and wide with only Guaita left to beat. Before the interval, Fede's long-range attempt was blocked by an Osasuna defender in what was Valencia's only attempt in the opening half. Osasuna were unlucky not to double their lead early in the second half when Roberto Torres' powerful attempt hit the far post with Guaita already beaten. Valencia coach Juan Antonio Pizzi brought in Jonas before the hour mark to replace Sofiane Feghouli. It proved a wise move as the Brazilian striker came to the rescue for Los Che. Vinicius Araujo set up Jonas in the area and he drilled a right-footed effort from 12 yards past Osasuna goalkeeper Andres Fernandez. Two minutes from time, Paco Alcacer came close to clinching three points for the visitors but struck the ball just wide of the far post, much to the relief of the home supporters.