Champions League debutants Malaga suffered a hangover from their midweek qualification for the last 16 when they lost 2-1 at home to Real Sociedad to remain fifth in La Liga on Saturday.
Malaga drew 1-1 at AC Milan to progress to the knockout stages of Europe's elite club competition but goals on the counter attack from Mexico striker Carlos Vela and Xavier Prieto condemned Manuel Pellegrini's men to a second consecutive home defeat. The Qatari-owned club have 18 points from 11 games, 10 behind unbeaten leaders Barcelona.
Champions Real Madrid, third with 20 points, also visit Levante on Sunday. Bottom club Osasuna earned their first points on the road this season with a 3-0 victory at fellow strugglers Espanyol on Saturday.
Rayo Vallecano and Real Zaragoza capitalised on red cards for their opponents to come back from two goals down to beat Celta Vigo 3-2 and Deportivo La Coruna 5-3.
Former Arsenal striker Vela struck inside the first minute for Sociedad at the Rosaleda, sliding home a low cross.
Javier Saviola levelled for Malaga following a corner in the 37th minute but a composed finish from Prieto restored Sociedad's lead.
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