The city of Oviedo is erupting in celebration as Real Oviedo, guided by their iconic son Santi Cazorla, have secured promotion to La Liga for the first time in 24 years. The club's 3-2 aggregate victory over Mirandes in the Segunda Division promotion play-off final sparked scenes of jubilation at the Estadio Nuevo Carlos Tartiere, as decades of longing finally came to an end on June 21, 2025.
The journey back to the top flight has been a long and arduous one for Real Oviedo, a club steeped in history and tradition. Financial difficulties in the early 2000s saw them drop as low as the third tier of Spanish football, threatening their very existence. However, the unwavering support of the fans, including club legends like Cazorla who purchased shares to help keep the club afloat, ensured that the flame never died out.
This season's success has been built on a foundation of strategic investment and astute management. Grupo Pachuca, who took over the majority of shares in July 2022, have injected fresh impetus into the club, bringing in key signings and implementing a long-term vision for sustainable growth. The appointment of Serbian manager Veljko Paunovic proved to be a masterstroke, as he guided the team through an impressive run of form towards the end of the regular season, securing a playoff spot.
The promotion play-offs were a nerve-wracking affair, with Oviedo having to overcome tough opponents in Almeria and Mirandes. The final against Mirandes was a particularly tense affair, with Oviedo trailing 1-0 from the first leg and then falling further behind in the second leg. However, just before halftime, the hometown hero, Santi Cazorla, stepped up to convert a crucial penalty, igniting the comeback.
Cazorla's influence extends far beyond his contributions on the pitch. The 40-year-old midfielder, who returned to his boyhood club in 2023, has been an inspirational figure both on and off the field, embodying the spirit and values of Real Oviedo. His experience and leadership have been invaluable in guiding the team through challenging moments, and his presence has galvanized the entire club and its fanbase.
Ilyas Chaira leveled the aggregate score in the second half of the second leg, and Francisco Portillo's stunning volley in extra time sealed the victory, sending the Nuevo Carlos Tartiere into raptures. The final whistle sparked emotional scenes as players, staff, and fans celebrated together, united in their shared joy and relief.
Real Oviedo's promotion to La Liga marks the end of a long and painful chapter in the club's history and the beginning of an exciting new era. As they prepare to compete against the giants of Spanish football, they do so with a renewed sense of pride, determination, and unity, led by their beloved son, Santi Cazorla. Their return completes the lineup for next season's La Liga, joining Levante and Elche among the promoted teams. Leganes, Las Palmas, and Valladolid will be playing in La Liga 2 next season. The fairytale has indeed come true, and the city of Oviedo can now look forward to witnessing their team grace the hallowed grounds of La Liga once again.
