Las Palmas overturned a 3-1 deficit to beat Real Zaragoza 2-0 on Sunday and earn promotion to La Liga on away goals via the Segunda playoffs.
The Gran Canarians were considered rank outsiders to reach the promised land following their collapse in Aragon, but Roque Mesa’s first-half finish, complimented by a clincher from Sergio Araujo with just six minutes remaining, served to end their side’s 13-year exile from the top flight.
Rafa Benitez’s former Liverpool assistant Paco Herrera was sacked by Zaragoza at the end of last season but guided Las Palmas to La Primera.
“I dedicate this win to the fans, my family and the President, who never left me in my toughest moments,” he said.
“Despite winning the Champions League [with Liverpool], if only in the background, what I’ve achieved today feels different, and I’m glad that I could give this happiness to the fans.
“It’s a paradox that hurts because I have great love for the city and the team [of Zaragoza] and I won’t forget them. I wish them all the best.
“I’ll now enjoy two or three holidays. My continuity depends on the President. At my age [61], all I want to do is enjoy my football and I know I can do it here.”
Herrera’s Zaragoza counterpart Ranko Popovic, meanwhile, admitted the dressing room felt like a “funeral parlour” but spoke of his pride at pushing Las Palmas all the way over two legs.
“I can’t find the words to express how the lads are feeling, but we just hope that what’s happened to Las Palmas this season, winning promotion after what happened last year, occurs to us next season,” he added.
“It wasn’t possible [to score]. We were on edge in the second half because they wanted to score so badly but couldn’t.
“Las Palmas deserved [promotion] more than us over the season, but I’m proud of my players. They’re the real heroes.
“I’m happy to have come here with a small squad and left with a 3-3 draw in the tie.
“Sorry to all the Zaragocismo and the fans, who had great enthusiasm for promotion, especially those who came here.”
Las Palmas – who suffered playoff heartbreak to Cordoba in 2013-14 – join Real Betis and Sporting Gijon in gaining promotion to La Liga.
