Valencia hung onto a slight hope of progressing to the next stage of the Europa League by holding Werder Bremen to a 1-1 draw despite being at home.

The Spaniards found themselves behind in the 25th minute when Torsten Frings converted from the penalty spot and it looked as though the Germans would push even further ahead when Ever Banega was shown a straight red in the 55th minute.

But Valencia regrouped and forced an equaliser two minutes later when Juan Mata poked home after a goal-line scramble.

Although they will be at a disadvantage going into the return leg in Bremen due to the German club's away goal, Valencia will be relieved they saved face by at least getting on the scoreboard despite being a man down.