Barcelona witnessed an extraordinary display of passion as approximately 6,000 supporters filled the Camp Municipal Narcís Sala to celebrate UE Sant Andreu’s promotion to Spain’s Tercera Federación, the country’s fourth tier, securing their return to the national league system after more than a decade away.
The club secured the title in Group 3 of the Segunda Federación with a 2-1 victory over Reus FC Reddis on Sunday, April 20, 2026, thanks to a late goal by Josep Sené in the 79th minute. This marked their 20th win in 32 matches, guaranteeing first place in the group that also featured FC Barcelona Atlètic.
The victory triggered scenes of jubilation in the historic Sant Andreu district, where fans packed the municipal stadium situated between residential buildings. The atmosphere was described as electric, with supporters creating a deafening roar as Sené converted the penalty that sealed the promotion.
UE Sant Andreu, founded on January 21, 1909, is one of Catalonia’s oldest football clubs and holds deep roots in the Sant Andreu neighborhood, which was an independent municipality until 1897. The club’s identity is closely tied to local values, with supporters known for advocating anti-racist, anti-fascist, and feminist causes.
The promotion represents a significant milestone for a club that last competed at the third level of Spanish football more than ten years ago. Their return to the Segunda Federación – Group 3 marks a reclamation of their historical standing in Spanish football’s pyramid.
Celebrations were joined by club owner Taito Suzuki, a Japanese businessman whose involvement has created a notable contrast with the club’s traditionally grassroots, locally anchored identity. Suzuki was present on the pitch during the post-match festivities, while head coach Natxo González was absent due to a heart attack suffered days before the decisive match.
The Camp Municipal Narcís Sala, UE Sant Andreu’s home ground, has an all-seated capacity of 6,563 spectators, meaning the near-capacity crowd represented one of the largest attendances in the stadium’s recent history. The venue, located in the heart of the Sant Andreu district, has been the club’s home since its foundation.
This promotion continues a recent upward trajectory for the club, following their previous rise in 2023 that saw season ticket holders increase to 3,500. Club officials suggest that number could grow substantially if they achieve their long-term ambition of returning to Spain’s second division, a level they last occupied in 1977.
UE Sant Andreu’s rivalry with CE Europa, known as the Pla de Barcelona derby, remains one of the most anticipated fixtures in Catalan football, adding extra significance to their campaign in Group 3. The club maintains an active online presence through its official website, www.uesantandreu.cat, where fans can access match information and club news.
The achievement highlights the enduring power of community football in Barcelona, where a neighborhood club can mobilize thousands of passionate supporters despite operating far below the glare of La Liga giants like FC Barcelona, whose youth team competed in the same division this season.
Looking ahead, UE Sant Andreu will now prepare for the challenges of competing in Spain’s fourth tier, where they aim to consolidate their position and build on the momentum generated by this historic promotion. The club’s next official fixture will be the opening match of the 2026-27 Segunda Federación season, with the exact date and opponent to be confirmed by the Royal Spanish Football Federation in the coming weeks.
For continued updates on UE Sant Andreu’s journey and other stories from the world of football, fans are encouraged to share their thoughts and join the conversation. What does this promotion indicate for the future of community-based football in Barcelona’s districts?
