1-2. Málaga Wins and Ascends to First Division Eight Years Later
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Málaga secured promotion to Spain's top football division after an eight-year absence.
- They defeated Almería 2-1 in the playoff final second leg.
- Goals from Chupe and Larrubia secured the victory, despite Almería's late consolation goal.
Málaga has achieved promotion back to Spain's First Division, marking their return after an eight-year absence from the top flight. The team secured their place with a hard-fought 2-1 away victory against Almería in the second leg of the promotion playoff final.
The crucial goals for Málaga came from Chupe and Larrubia. Chupe opened the scoring in the 64th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error by Almería. Larrubia then extended their lead in the 70th minute with a powerful shot, putting Málaga in a commanding position.
Almería managed to pull a goal back in the 75th minute through Baptistao, who scored after a cross from Luna was deflected. This late strike offered a glimmer of hope for the home side, but they were unable to find the equalizer. The match concluded with two red cards, one for each team, adding to the tension of the promotion decider.
Throughout the game, Málaga gradually took control, pushing Almería back and disrupting their build-up play. Despite Almería's efforts to change the momentum with substitutions, Málaga's early goals proved decisive in securing their long-awaited return to La Liga.
Originally published by Proceso Digital in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.