Celta Vigo Secures Europa League Spot with Last-Minute Win Over Getafe

Celta Vigo has clinched a spot in European competition for the first time since the 2016/17 season, making a thrilling comeback from a goal down to seize a vital 2-1 win at Estadio Coliseum—a ground where Getafe has only triumphed once this year.

Following a brutal six-match losing streak, Getafe found their footing with a critical victory over Real Mallorca, which ensured their survival, and they carried that energy into this match with an early advantage.

Borja Mayoral capitalised on a poor pass from Vicente Guaita, striking a quick shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the area, which further dampened Celta’s hopes of European qualification.

Nonetheless, Borja Iglesias equalised midway through the first half, receiving a first-time pass from Iago Aspas and skillfully slotting his shot into the net to bring the scores level.

Celta then had a penalty appeal turned down, and neither side was able to gain the upper hand before the break—a reflection of Getafe’s strong defensive performance, with only two teams conceding fewer than their 38 goals this season.

After the break, Claudio Giraldez’s troops emerged revitalised, with Aspas, Alfon Gonzalez, and Javi Rodriguez all coming close to giving Celta the lead by the hour mark at the Coliseum.

Against a team seeking just their fifth away league win of the season, Getafe—who have only scored in both halves at home once this campaign—intensified their defensive efforts to maintain the scoreline.

However, the visitors soon broke the deadlock, as Aspas connected with Williot Swedberg’s cross and volleyed the ball into the bottom right corner, silencing the home supporters.

Jose Bordalas’ side finished their season on a disappointing note, ending in the lower half of the table after suffering a rare league double against Celta.

Things took a further turn for the worse when Ismael Bekchoucha was sent off for a reckless tackle as full-time approached. Celta secured their fifth away victory of the league season, which is arguably their most significant, as it guarantees their participation in the UEFA Europa League for the next term.

Catch all the match stats here.