Malaga secures La Liga return after 8‑year absence

Malaga defeated Almeria 2‑1 in the Segunda División playoff final, earning promotion to Spain’s top flight for the first time in eight years. The match remained goalless until the 65th minute when Cupe capitalised on a defensive error by Bonini to put the visitors ahead, and six minutes later doubled the lead after a quick counter‑attack assisted by Larubija.

Almeria pulled one back in the 76th minute when Luna delivered a cross that Embarbe headed to Leo Baptista, who finished past goalkeeper Fernández. Shortly after, a red card was shown to Almeria’s Talis. Despite a late surge and ten minutes of added time, Malaga held on to secure the victory and confirm their return to La Liga. Former Partizan midfielder Darko Brašanac featured for Malaga, while Stefan Džodić started for Almeria.

The win marks a significant achievement for Malaga, restoring the club to Spain’s elite league and ending a lengthy spell in the second tier.