Jules Kounde gave Sevilla a golden opportunity to snatch the last-gasp winner after he was fouled by Osasuna's Manu Sanchez in the area, only for goalkeeper Sergio Herrera to deny Rakitic from the resulting spot kick.

The stalemate left second-placed Sevilla three points behind Madrid, who host Granada on Sunday.

Forward Anthony Martial debuted for Sevilla but, like most of his new teammates, was held in check by Osasuna's disciplined defence in Pamplona.

Eyeing the opportunity this season to finally add to their lone league title from 1946, Sevilla added to their already deep squad in the winter transfer market.

Martial arrived on loan from Manchester United on the heels of Jesus Corona's transfer from Porto three weeks ago.

Playing his fourth match since arriving, Corona was the only Sevilla attacker able to poke holes in Osasuna's defence with his dribbling.

But his only shot in the 70th minute sailed well high.

Osasuna remained in 12th place after just one loss in their past four games.

Pere Milla continued his good scoring form after finding the net twice to lead Elche's 3-1 comeback win over Alaves.

Milla has scored six goals in his past six league appearances.

"Like I always say, goals are like ketchup, you can squeeze and squeeze and nothing comes out until all of sudden it pours," Milla said.

Brais Mendez scored twice to help mid-table Celta Vigo beat Rayo Vallecano 2-0 while Real Mallorca fought back to beat Cadiz 2-1 in their relegation scrap -- to open up a five-point gap between the sides in 17th and 18th place.

Australian Associated Press