Villarreal Women defeat Osasuna and will play in the promotion play-off final to Liga F against Valencia CF
Villarreal Women keep dreaming. Jordi Ferriols’ side overcame Osasuna 3-1 in the second leg of the promotion play-off semi-finals and secured their place in the grand final with a 5-2 aggregate score. The Yellows will now fight for promotion to Liga F against Valencia CF, with the first leg at the José Manuel Llaneza Training Ground (23rd-24th May) and the second leg at the Ciudad Deportiva de Paterna (30th-31st May).
The match started with intensity, with Osasuna determined to mount a comeback. In the 11th minute, Adri Parada led a dangerous counterattack that ended with the ball hitting the side netting. Villarreal Women responded shortly after with a great attacking move, as in the 14th minute Sara Medina delivered a precise cross that Lauris headed just wide.
The Yellows began to grow into the game and found their reward in the 21st minute. Sara Medina scored a stunning goal with a powerful long-range strike that surprised Mon to give the hosts the lead (1-0). Osasuna tried to react, but Montse Quesada produced two outstanding saves to maintain the advantage. Just before half-time, Villarreal Women struck again. Lauris assisted María Macías, who made no mistake to score the second (2-0, 45th minute).
After the break, the match entered a phase of shared possession and chances for both sides. Irene Miguélez, who was also making her 100th appearance for the Yellows, had a good opportunity to extend the lead, while Urzainqui also threatened for the visitors.
Osasuna reduced the deficit in the 75th minute when Claudia G. headed in a cross from Azpiazu (2-1). Despite the goal, Villarreal remained composed and continued to show great defensive intensity, backed by an excellent Montse Quesada in goal. The decisive moment came in the 83rd minute. Aixa Salvador finished off an attacking move to make it 3-1 and spark celebrations at Pitch five of the José Manuel Llaneza Training Ground.
