Valencia CF Women Promoted to First Division

A goal by Leire Monente in the 99th minute of extra time secured the necessary draw for the team to be promoted.

Generic image of a soccer ball on a field.
IA

Generic image of a soccer ball on a field.

Valencia CF Women has secured promotion to the First Division after playing the playoff final against Villarreal CF in a packed Antonio Puchades stadium.

The team returns to the top tier of Spanish football after a year in the First Federation, thanks to a 1-1 draw in the 99th minute of extra time, scored by Leire Monente. This result was sufficient for the Valencian side, who had the aggregate advantage.
The match began with visiting dominance, Villarreal CF using the right flank as their main attacking weapon through their captain, Nerea Pérez. It was Pérez who assisted Aixa for the opening goal in the 21st minute, after a play that ended with the ball in the hands of Valencia's goalkeeper, Marina Llàcer, but ultimately crossed the line.
Valencia reacted and created numerous scoring opportunities down the right wing, with Marina Martí, Danielle Marcano, and Marta Mascarell being prominent. However, the 'grogueta' goalkeeper managed to thwart their attempts. At halftime, the score was 0-1, placing the visitors in a promotion spot.
In the second half, Valencia increased their intensity and sought the equalizer, creating ten clear chances from the 46th minute onwards. Sara Tamarit had an excellent opportunity in the 52nd minute, but her shot hit the crossbar. Rain accompanied the tense final minutes of the game.
In the 99th minute, Leire Monente scored the equalizing goal, igniting celebrations among fans chanting 'Yes we can!'. After 120 minutes of play, mental strength proved crucial for the Valencia players, who finally achieved their goal of returning to Liga F.
Villarreal CF, on the other hand, will remain in the Second Division for the upcoming season.