Club Deportivo Leganés Clinches Title and Secures Promotion to La Liga
June 04, 2024
Leganés, Spain – June 2, 2024-In an exhilarating conclusion to the season, Club Deportivo Leganés has won the Segunda División title and secured a promotion to La Liga with a decisive 2-0 victory over Elche at the Estadio Municipal de Butarque. This monumental achievement marks a triumphant return to Spain’s top football division for Leganés, a feat that has electrified fans and solidified the club’s status as a powerhouse in Spanish football.
The match was a showcase of skill and determination, beginning with an early goal by Miguel de la Fuente in the 10th minute, setting the tone for what was to come. The stadium erupted in celebration once again in stoppage time of the first half, as Juan Cruz netted a second goal, securing a commanding lead that Leganés held onto until the final whistle.
Adding to the excitement, Real Valladolid’s 2-1 loss to Tenerife, with goals by Luismi Cruz in the 52nd minute and Ángel Rodríguez in the 79th minute, confirmed Leganés’ top position and their championship status. This result ensures Leganés’ triumph and their return to La Liga, much to the delight of their passionate fanbase.
Leganés’ success this season is a testament to the team’s resilience, strategy, and unwavering dedication. Next season promises to be thrilling as Leganés will compete in local derbies against Atlético Madrid, Real Madrid, and Getafe, and face off against other Spanish football giants like Barcelona and Valencia.
A significant highlight of Leganés’ recent history was their strategic partnership with the Malawi Government last year. This collaboration, facilitated by Malawian sports expert and former diplomat James Woods, saw the “Malawi, The Warm Heart of Africa” logo prominently displayed on the team’s kits. This partnership, though short-term, was a visionary move akin to the high-profile “Visit Rwanda” deal with Arsenal, underscoring the power of sports to promote tourism, development, cultural understanding and foster international goodwill.
James Woods, reflecting on the partnership, said: “I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Leganés, Club President Jeff Luhnow, and all the dedicated fans on this remarkable achievement. The partnership with Malawi was a significant and visionary step, highlighting the potential of sports to bridge cultures and promote development. I am hopeful that, over time, we will see Malawian players transitioning to Spain, along with more African talents making their mark in European football.”
The history of Leganés is adorned with notable players, including the legendary Samuel Eto’o, who began his illustrious career at Leganés while on loan from Real Madrid. Other famous players who have graced the Leganés jersey include:
• Nabil El Zhar, who is now retired but had a significant impact during his time with Leganés.
• Youssef En-Nesyri, currently a standout striker for Sevilla FC and a regular for the Moroccan national team.
• Martin Braithwaite, now playing for Espanyol and a key player for the Danish national team.
• Gabriel Appelt Pires, who moved on to play for Al-Gharafa in Qatar.
• Rubén Pérez, now playing for Panathinaikos in Greece.
• Unai Emery the current manager of Aston Villa also had a stint as a player.
The current crop of players will seek to make a significant impact in La Liga next season, continuing the legacy of excellence and striving to establish themselves among Spain’s elite.
This victory is part of a broader celebration in Madrid, with Real Madrid having beaten Borussia Dortmund 2-0 in the UEFA Champions League final on June 1, 2024. The consecutive days of triumph for Madrid’s football clubs have set the city alight with joy and festivities.
As Leganés looks forward to competing in La Liga next season, they do so with a sense of accomplishment and optimism. The journey to this point has been marked by strategic initiatives and hard-earned victories, positioning them well for the challenges ahead. The club’s promotion is a celebration of not only athletic excellence but also the impactful partnerships that have broadened its global reach and influence.
