Venezuelan striker Juan Arango scored the winner midway through the first half when his free kick from wide out on the right flew over a huddle of defenders, bounced in front of keeper Dudu Aouate and went in.

Deportivo, a shadow of the side that beat Real Madrid 1-0 last weekend, had striker Riki sent off for a second booking deep into injury time.

Defeat left Depor two points above the relegation zone with all their immediate rivals yet to play.

Fifth-placed Sevilla host Atletico Madrid, in fourth, in Saturday's late match as the two sides look to strengthen their chances of earning a place in next season's Champions League.

Leaders Real Madrid host Valencia on Sunday while second-placed Barcelona entertain Valladolid.

Barca, who lost 4-3 on aggregate to Valencia in the semi-finals of the King's Cup in midweek, will be without Ronaldinho after coach Frank Rijkaard left him out on Saturday. -- REUTERS