14 years later! The first La Liga newcomer is decided
Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
The season in Spain's second division is nearing its climax, and the battle for La Liga promotion is reaching a fever pitch. Several clubs are still locked in a fierce fight for two direct tickets to La Liga, but the first lucky team has already emerged.
After a commanding 4-1 victory over Valladolid, Racing Santander has officially secured its return to the top flight. With two matchdays to spare, López's squad has clinched a top-two finish and, after a 14-year absence, will once again compete in La Liga.
Let's recall: the second-placed team will also earn direct promotion, while those finishing third to sixth will battle it out in the playoffs for one last La Liga spot. Heading in the opposite direction, Real Oviedo has already been relegated, while the fate of the other two unfortunate sides will be determined in the final rounds.
