Málaga Secures Return to La Liga After 8-Year Absence

Málaga have officially secured their return to La Liga for the 2026–2027 season after defeating Almería 2-1 on aggregate in the promotion playoff final, marking the end of an eight-year absence from Spain’s top flight.

After a goalless draw in the first leg, Málaga produced a decisive away performance to claim a 2-1 victory at Almería’s home ground, sealing their place in the Spanish first division.

The breakthrough came in the second half when Chupete capitalised on a defensive error in Almería’s build-up play, finishing clinically to give the visitors the lead. 

Just six minutes later, Larubia doubled the advantage with a well-taken strike that put Málaga firmly in control of the tie.

Almería attempted a late comeback, with Leo Baptistão scoring a fine solo goal inside the penalty area to reduce the deficit, but it was not enough to overturn Málaga’s aggregate lead.

With this promotion, Málaga join Deportivo La Coruña and Racing Santander among the clubs returning to La Liga next season, adding fresh competition to the Spanish top division after years away from the elite level.