La Liga’s Matchday 35 saw significant developments with just three games remaining. Levante secured a vital away victory against Celta Vigo, boosting their survival hopes, while Real Betis clinched a memorable return to the Champions League after a 21-year absence with a home win against Elche. Atletico Madrid also claimed three points against Osasuna.
Celta Vigo 2-3 Levante: A Resilient Comeback
Levante achieved a crucial victory away to Celta Vigo, lifting them out of the relegation zone. Celta Vigo took an early lead through Ferran Jutgla in the fourth minute. Despite falling behind, Levante showed resilience throughout the first half. The second half saw Levante complete a remarkable comeback. Javi Rueda set up Jutgla for his second goal, before Adrian de la Fuente unleashed a spectacular long-range strike to equalize. Roger Brugue then headed in a corner to give Levante the lead. Although Celta Vigo mounted a late charge, Levante held on for a significant win, moving them to 16th place. Celta Vigo’s Champions League aspirations were dealt a blow, and they remain sixth, in line for a Europa League spot.
Real Betis 2-1 Elche: A Historic Return to Europe’s Elite
Real Betis secured their place in the Champions League with a hard-fought home win against Elche. Cucho Hernandez opened the scoring for Betis in the eighth minute with a powerful strike from distance. Elche equalized five minutes before halftime through a deflected effort from Hector Fort. The game took a decisive turn in the second half when Elche’s Theo Petro was sent off for a rash challenge. With the numerical advantage, Real Betis increased the pressure, and Pablo Fornals sealed the victory with a stunning strike into the top corner with 22 minutes remaining. This goal marked Real Betis’ return to the Champions League for the first time in 21 years and is a significant achievement in Manuel Pellegrini’s tenure. They are now guaranteed at least fifth place. Elche remain in 14th place.
Osasuna 1-1 Atletico Madrid: A Tense Encounter
Atletico Madrid secured a late win against Osasuna. Ademola Lookman converted a penalty in the 12th minute to give Atletico an early lead. Osasuna had chances to equalize in the first half, but couldn’t convert. In the second half, Atletico extended their lead through Alexander Sorloth’s header from a Marcos Llorente assist. Llorente was later sent off for a second yellow card. Osasuna managed to pull a goal back in stoppage time through Kike Barja, but it was not enough. The result leaves Osasuna in 11th place, caught between European qualification and the relegation zone. Atletico Madrid, meanwhile, are now just three points behind Villarreal, keeping their faint hopes of finishing third alive.