Sant Andreu Celebrates Promotion to Primera RFEF After Dramatic Win Over Reus
Sant Andreu has secured promotion to Spain’s Primera RFEF following a dramatic 2-1 victory over Reus Deportiu at the Estadi Narcís Sala on May 18, 2024. The historic Catalan club returns to the third tier of Spanish football after more than a decade away, capping a remarkable season defined by resilience and community spirit.
The match-winning goals came from midfielder Mendes and forward Señé, with Señé converting a crucial penalty in the 78th minute to seal the victory. Sant Andreu took an early lead through Mendes in the 23rd minute before Reus Deportiu equalized shortly after halftime through a goal by their forward, Víctor Ruiz, in the 52nd minute.
The victory was particularly poignant given the recent health scare involving Sant Andreu’s head coach, Natxo González. González suffered a heart attack during training on May 12, 2024, which required hospitalization and prevented him from being present on the bench for the decisive match. Despite his absence, the team delivered a performance that honored his influence throughout the season.
In a touching display of sportsmanship, Reus Deportiu fans in attendance displayed banners and messages of support for González, acknowledging his previous connection to their club where he served as assistant coach from 2018 to 2020. This gesture highlighted the mutual respect between the two Catalan clubs and their shared footballing community.
The promotion marks Sant Andreu’s first return to the Primera RFEF since the 2012-13 season, when they competed in the former Segunda División B. The club’s journey back to the third tier has been built on steady progress through the regional divisions, culminating in their championship-winning campaign in the Tercera Federación Group 5 during the 2023-24 season.
Estadi Narcís Sala, located in the Sant Andreu district of Barcelona, provided a fitting backdrop for the celebration. The historic venue, which has been the club’s home since 1922, was filled to capacity with passionate supporters who created an electric atmosphere throughout the match. The pitch invasion that followed the final whistle saw players and fans unite in joyous celebration on the hallowed turf.
Looking ahead, Sant Andreu will begin preparations for their inaugural Primera RFEF campaign in the 2024-25 season. The club faces the challenge of adapting to the increased competitiveness of the third tier while maintaining the identity and values that have driven their recent success. Pre-season friendlies are expected to begin in late July, with the official league schedule to be released by the Royal Spanish Football Federation in June.
The promotion represents more than just a sporting achievement for Sant Andreu. it symbolizes the enduring power of community football in Catalonia. As the club celebrates this milestone, they carry forward the hopes of a district that has long identified with its local team as a source of pride and unity.
What are your thoughts on Sant Andreu’s remarkable return to the Primera RFEF? Share your reactions in the comments below and join the conversation about this inspiring Catalan football story.
