Thomas Partey scores as Atletico Madrid held by Elche in Copa del Rey

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey was on target for Atletico Madrid as they were held to a 1-1 stalemate by Spanish third-tier side Elche in the first leg of the Copa del Rey Round of 32 on Wednesday night.

Diego Simeone rested stars including Antoine Griezmann, Koke, Jan Oblak and Diego Godin ahead of Saturday's league game against Villarreal.

However, the Rojiblancos started well as they took only 17 minutes to break the deadlock through Thomas Partey, who beat goalkeeper Guillermo Vallejo with a fine header after he was picked out at the back post by Jose Gimenez.

Elche levelled shortly after half-time, with Lolo Pla converting a penalty he won himself by drawing a foul from Lucas Hernandez.

Simeone's men will need to be better in next month's second leg to avoid an upset.