MADRID, Jan 18, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - Cristhian Stuani scored twice as La Liga leaders Girona downed Rayo Vallecano 3-1 on Wednesday to reach the Copa del Rey quarter-finals for only the second time in their history.

Hosts Girona, who sit one point clear of Real Madrid at the top of the league, put the game to bed inside the first half hour through Uruguayan veteran Stuani's brace and a goal from former Manchester United full-back Daley Blind.

Stuani has now scored 10 goals in all competitions this season despite largely being used as a substitute in La Liga.

Real Sociedad also reached the last eight with a 2-0 win at last season's runners-up Osasuna, while Celta Vigo saw off Valencia 3-1.

On Thursday, holders Barcelona visit third-tier Unionistas before Atletico Madrid host city rivals Real.