Madrid: Spanish club Valenica took a huge step towards the group stage of the Champions League when they defeated French side Monaco 3-1 in the first leg of their qualifying round.


Valencia players celebrate after scoring during the UEFA Champions League playoff football match between Valencia CF vs AS Monaco FC at the Mestalla stadium in Valencia. Pic/AFP 

Goals from Rodrigo, Dani Parejo and Sofianne Feghouli scored the goals which give Valencia a 2-goal cushion to defend in France next Tuesday, Xinhua reported.