On Sunday, Espanyol rejoined the Spanish Football League just a year after being relegated to the second division, setting the stage for fans to eagerly anticipate the Catalan derby once more.
Espanyol secured their return by defeating Real Oviedo with two goals to nil in the second leg of the promotion playoff final from the second division. Javi Boadu scored both goals for Espanyol, finding the net in the 44th minute and again in stoppage time before halftime, overturning their deficit from the first leg.
The fans celebrate
To reach the playoff final, Espanyol had previously overcome Sporting Gijon by winning away with a goal and drawing 0-0 at home. They finished the season in fourth place in the Spanish second division after 42 rounds, securing direct qualification alongside Leganés and Valladolid.
The final promotion spot was decided through a knockout playoff involving Eibar, Espanyol, Sporting Gijon, and Real Oviedo, who finished third to sixth respectively.
Espanyol’s supporters celebrated their team’s return to the La Liga atmosphere with jubilant scenes at the stadium, reminiscent of the fervor seen in English football stadiums.
