Atlético Levante UD advances to the second round of the promotion playoff

The Atlético Levante UD secured a spot in the second round of the promotion playoff to Segunda RFEF despite losing 1-2 to Villarreal C at the Ciudad Deportiva de Buñol. The advantage gained in the first leg, where the Granotas won 1-3 at the Mini Estadi, proved decisive in advancing through the tie with an aggregate score of 4-3.

The match began with Villarreal C determined to close the gap as quickly as possible. Their persistence paid off in the 5th minute, when Mario Cervera scored the 0-1, bringing the visitors back into contention for qualification. Atlético Levante's response was swift. In the 9th minute, Rosón made a great individual play after getting past several opponents, though his attempt was stopped by the Groguet goalkeeper.

Shortly after, Asier had to intervene confidently, punching away a dangerous ball in the 11th minute. The Granotas sought the equalizer before halftime. Dani Cervera tried his luck from outside the box with a shot that went over the crossbar, while Brandon had a good chance in the 36th minute, but his shot went wide. The first half ended with a 0-1 scoreline.

After the break, Atlético Levante came out strong in the second half. Brandon created the first chance of the second half, and the Granota team began to dominate possession and create opportunities in the opponent's area. Aitor came close to equalizing in the 55th minute with a header that went over the crossbar.

Villarreal C also created danger, but Atlético Levante responded firmly. Martin Krug was crucial in clearing the ball twice from the six-yard box, while Asier prevented another goal by blocking a very dangerous shot after a great individual play by a Villarreal attacker.

Tension rose when Dani Cantero scored the 0-2 for Villarreal CF, a result that leveled the tie and would have sent the match into extra time. However, Atlético Levante managed to respond at the crucial moment six minutes later. In the 86th minute, Dani Cervera delivered a corner kick that Husein headed. The visiting goalkeeper managed to stop the initial attempt, but Calatrava was quick to react to the rebound, sending the ball into the back of the net to make it 1-2.

That goal allowed Atlético Levante to regain the aggregate lead and secure a hard-fought qualification. Despite the loss in the second leg, the Granotas capitalized on their 1-3 victory in Villarreal to advance to the second round of the promotion playoff.

Atlético Levante will face CF La Nucía next weekend with the goal of continuing their dream of promotion to Segunda RFEF.