Hugs of joy and so much tension released. That’s what the final whistle brought at Cartagonova. Because it’s official: SD Huesca will continue in Segunda Division for one more season. This was confirmed by their victory against FC Cartagena on Sunday, which secured their objective without needing to look at other results in this penultimate match of the season. The Oscenses stay up with Antonio Hidalgo at the helm, capping off an intense season.
Elady took the first step, easing some of the burden on the Altoaragoneses’ legs and minds, aware of the importance of securing three points at Cartagonova and avoiding any calculations. It was after 13 minutes when the forward capitalised on a rebound from Kento’s shot, parried by the goalkeeper, to make it 0-1. SD Huesca had already entered the local area earlier, with a fall in the box by Javi Martinez and a cross that went untouched. These were the first warnings of the visitors, which showed greater urgency. As the minutes went by and with the lead on the scoreboard, the game became more even, especially towards the end of the first half. However, SD Huesca managed to go into the dressing room with that crucial goal lead, which could well avoid relegation.
The second half started with a clear chance for Cartagena, as the Azulgranas struggled to maintain possession. Thus, a free kick from the edge of the box once again threatened Alvaro’s goal. SD Huesca began to overcome these moments of inaccuracy when they found reinforcement in a second goal, from a corner to the far post, again scored by Elady. Hidalgo then made substitutions, bringing on Rafa Tresaco and Loureiro for Gerard Valentin and Samu Obeng. This double change, combined with the second goal, significantly slowed the pace of the match, leading Hidalgo to make a third substitution: Javi Mier for the two-goal hero Elady, with about 15 minutes remaining. Carlos Gutierrez and Kortajarena were the last to enter the field, fulfilling the objective of closing out the game with no changes left and maintaining the 0-2 final score.
