Castellón’s 18 June memory feels different on 37th anniversary of 1989 promotion | OneFootball

CD Castellón mark 18 June recalling their 1989 promotion to the top flight, but 37 years on the date feels different after a near miss this season.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, Castellón were eliminated by Almería in the play-off semi-finals after coming from behind to lead 1-2 and, within sight of extra time, losing 3-2 in added time. A stoppage-time strike from Dzodic cut the dream short, and there was a strong feeling that Pablo Hernández’s side had done enough to stay alive.

On 18 June 1989, Luiche’s Castellón needed a point to clinch automatic promotion. They earned it with a 0-0 in El Plantío against the now-defunct Real Burgos, sealing a return to the elite and later claiming the Segunda title. It was the club’s fourth promotion to Primera and remains their last.

The comparison with that triumph is inevitable. This time they fell short, and a fine campaign now feels like a wound that has not closed.

So this anniversary is not only a celebration of the past, it is a reminder of a 37-year pursuit. The last rise remains the reference point, Almería the freshest blow. At SkyFi Castalia there is renewed belief that Primera is not only a memory but a realistic target.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo