Málaga CF Coach Funes Leads Team to Promotion Playoff Final
Málaga CF, coached by Juanfran Funes, advanced to the promotion playoff final for La Liga after a 0-1 away win and subsequent elimination of UD Las Palmas. Funes emphasized resilience, squad rotation, and maintaining identity, warning the tie was far from over after the first leg. He celebrated the achievement but stressed the final remains ahead, highlighting the team's energy and fan support.
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Chaos Erupts as Málaga Players Storm Coach Funes' Press Conference After Promotion
Following Málaga CF's 2-1 victory over UD Almería, which secured their promotion to LaLiga Hypermotion, the post-match press conference of coach Sergio Funes descended into chaos. As the conference was nearing its end, Funes' players burst into the room, celebrating wildly and turning the event upside down. The club's communications director was forced to declare, 'We can consider the press conference over,' as the jubilant team took over. The incident, captured in photos and video, highlighted the emotional release after a hard-fought playoff victory. The article notes the match score and gives context via tags referencing Málaga CF, LaLiga Hypermotion, playoffs, and UD Almería.
Fútbol en AS.comFunes: Málaga CF's risky bet paid off with promotion to La Liga
Málaga CF secured promotion to La Liga (Spanish First Division) after a 1-2 victory over UD Almería. Coach Juanfran Funes, emotional and happy, praised the club's leadership—José María, Kike, and Loren—for taking a 'risky bet' on him. He highlighted the unity between the team and fans, the energy from supporters, and the role of his players ('beasts'). Funes also addressed a substitution involving Murillo (who suffered a potential injury) and Niño, calling it a twist of fate. He expressed gratitude to his family and the city of Málaga, emphasizing that the promotion was a reward for years of effort and a way to inspire a new generation of fans.
Últimas NoticiasJuanfran Funes Leads Málaga CF Back to La Liga After Victory Over Almería
Málaga CF secured promotion to La Liga after a 1-2 away victory against UD Almería. Head coach Juanfran Funes, visibly emotional, credited the club's management—José María, Kike, and Loren—for taking a risky bet on him, as well as the players ('beasts') and fans for their unwavering support. Funes noted the team had 'angels up there pushing us,' referencing nephew of late footballer Juan Gómez. He addressed a substitution involving injured defender Murillo, whose condition is uncertain, and highlighted the unprecedented bond between team and fans, saying the promotion gives children in Málaga reason to become lifelong supporters. The interview ended with players bursting into the press room to celebrate with their coach.
Últimas NoticiasJuanfran Funes Emotional After Leading Málaga CF Back to La Liga
Málaga CF secured promotion to La Liga with a 1-2 away victory over UD Almería. Coach Juanfran Funes, visibly emotional and surrounded by celebrating players after the match, dedicated the win to his family and thanked club executives José María, Kike, and Loren for trusting him with 'the riskiest bet'. He highlighted the deep bond between the team and fans, noting that thousands of supporters at La Rosaleda and in Almería provided crucial energy. Funes also addressed an injury to center-back Murillo, which forced an early tactical substitution. He stressed the importance of living in the present and giving a new generation of fans reasons to support the club. The win ended Málaga's absence from the top tier of Spanish football and was celebrated as a long-term project success.
Últimas NoticiasUD Almería vs Málaga CF: Decisive Promotion Playoff Second Leg
Málaga CF faces UD Almería in the second leg of a promotion playoff to return to Spain's First Division after eight years. The match kicks off at 9 PM in Almería, with the aggregate score tied 0-0 from the first leg. Málaga's coach Juan Francisco Funes emphasizes proactive play, while Almería's Rubi calls it the most important match in years. Málaga's 25-player squad includes key names like A. Herrero and D. Larrubia, with several players unavailable. The article highlights the emotional significance for Málaga's 600,000 inhabitants, who are united in support. Almería holds a classification advantage, and the winner secures a spot in the elite division.
Últimas NoticiasMálaga Coach Funes Vows to 'Make It Happen' Ahead of Promotion Final Against Almería
Málaga CF head coach Juanfran Funes held his final press conference of the 2025/26 season ahead of the return leg of the promotion final to La Liga against UD Almería. Funes expressed emotional excitement but emphasized the need for calm and unity, stating that the team's continuity has been key. He confirmed full squad availability and noted that recent tactical rotations have built flexibility. Funes downplayed pressure on Almería, calling them a strong home side with experienced players, but stressed that Málaga must go out to win. He said the team is not waiting for promotion to happen—they are going to make it happen. The first leg ended with Málaga one goal ahead, and a draw would send them up.
Últimas NoticiasMálaga Coach Funes Vows to 'Make It Happen' Ahead of Promotion Final Against Almería
Málaga CF head coach Juanfran Funes held his final pre-match press conference of the 2025/26 season ahead of the second leg of the promotion playoff final against UD Almería. Funes expressed emotional intensity but emphasized calm and unity, stating the team is not waiting to see if promotion happens but will actively make it happen. He noted that all players are available and that the squad's continuity and collective spirit have been key. Funes acknowledged Almería's advantages—being the best home team, needing only a draw—but insisted Málaga will play to win. He predicted a strong opening from Almería and a more open match than the first leg. Funes guaranteed the team will leave everything on the pitch, calling the match the most difficult and most exciting of the year.
Últimas NoticiasFunes confident after Málaga CF's goalless draw: 'We are one goal away from promotion'
Málaga CF drew 0-0 at home against UD Almería in the first leg of the promotion final to the Spanish First Division. Coach Juanfran Funes expressed confidence in his team's chances, stating they are 'one goal away' from promotion. He praised the defensive performance of both sides and highlighted the historic opportunity for the club. Funes noted that Almería, a team with First Division experience, will likely play more openly in the second leg, creating more scoring chances. He emphasized the need for depth in the final third and receiving the ball behind Almería's defense. Funes also thanked the fans for their incredible support and expressed optimism about the team's away form, noting they have been the best away team in recent months. The second leg will be played in Almería.
Últimas NoticiasMálaga CF Coach Funes Confident After Goalless Draw: One Goal Away from Promotion
Málaga CF drew 0-0 at home against UD Almería in the first leg of the promotion final to LaLiga. Coach Juanfran Funes expressed confidence in a press conference, stating the team is 'one goal away' from reaching the First Division. He praised the defensive effort, the incredible fan atmosphere, and the team's away form. Funes acknowledged a lack of depth in the final third but emphasized the team's personality and ability to match Almería. He expects a more open game in the return leg, with Almería likely to attack rather than waste time. The dressing room is eager and confident, with all players available despite recent fixture congestion.
Últimas NoticiasMálaga Coach Juanfran Funes: 'These Kids Want to Do It Like in Tarragona'
Málaga CF head coach Juanfran Funes expressed confidence after a goalless first leg of the Segunda División promotion playoff against UD Almería on June 14, 2026. Funes praised his team's defensive performance and noted that they are just one goal away from promotion to La Liga (Primera División). He criticized Almería's time-wasting tactics but expects a more open match in the second leg. Funes highlighted the impressive atmosphere at La Rosaleda stadium and emphasized his team's strong away form, stating they have earned the most points on the road in recent months. He remains optimistic about advancing, referencing a previous playoff experience in Tarragona as inspiration for his young squad.
Fútbol en AS.comFunes thanks Malaga for passion during promotion playoff to Primera Division
Juanfran Funes, a figure associated with Almeria's promotion playoff campaign, held a press conference on Friday to discuss the final playoff tie for promotion to Spain's Primera Division. He took time to thank the city of Malaga for its passionate support, stating that 'it's no longer just La Rosaleda' and that Malaga is showing great strength. Funes highlighted the emotional buildup and confidence transmitted by the people, noting that the city's enthusiasm is extraordinary given its population size. He also addressed the upcoming matches: the first leg at La Rosaleda on Sunday and the return leg at Almeria's stadium on June 20. Funes praised the difficulty of taking fans to Las Palmas and expressed pride in those who traveled. He called for a celebration of Andalusian football, urging both teams to show sportsmanship and avoid disputes ahead of the all-Andalusian promotion final.
Últimas NoticiasFunes thanks Málaga's passion ahead of promotion playoff final to La Liga
Juanfran Funes, a figure associated with Almería's promotion playoff campaign, held a press conference on Friday to discuss the final tie against Málaga for a spot in La Liga. He expressed gratitude to the city of Málaga and its fans for their passionate support, stating that living in the best city in the world explains the intense atmosphere. Funes noted that the excitement has spread beyond La Rosaleda stadium, with the entire province showing strength. He highlighted an example of a player, Eneko, who is amazed by the experience. The first leg will be at La Rosaleda on Sunday, with the return leg at Almería's stadium on June 20. Funes also appealed for sportsmanship, emphasizing that the final between two Andalusian teams should be a celebration of Andalusian football, avoiding disputes.
Últimas NoticiasJuanfran Funes: 'Children Grow Up' After Dramatic Comeback
Málaga manager Juanfran Funes expressed satisfaction after his team reached the promotion playoff final, overcoming an early setback against Las Palmas. In a post-match interview, Funes praised his team's resilience, noting that 'the kids showed a lot of veteran savvy' and 'are growing up.' He highlighted the festive atmosphere at La Rosaleda stadium and the impact of substitutions. Funes acknowledged the difficulty of the tie, congratulated Las Palmas for pushing them to the limit, and emphasized the need to recover quickly with one less day of rest than their final opponent, Almería. He also reflected on the broader significance of the moment for the club and its fans, calling it 'a seed that is blooming.'
F√∫tbol en AS.comFunes praises Málaga CF's calmness and crowd support after securing promotion final spot
Málaga CF secured their place in the final for promotion to Spain's First Division on June 10, 2026, drawing 1-1 with UD Las Palmas at La Rosaleda. Coach Juanfran Funes highlighted the team's mental resilience after an early setback, crediting the home crowd for carrying the team through. He praised Las Palmas for their tactical discipline and noted the importance of staying calm during tense moments. Funes emphasized the squad's commitment despite short recovery times and expressed pride in the growing fan support. Key tactical changes, including reverting to two strikers, helped avoid extra time. The team will face Almería in the final with one less day of rest.
Últimas NoticiasMálaga CF Coach Funes Credits Crowd After Promotion Playoff Final Qualification
Málaga CF secured their place in the final for promotion to Spain's First Division on June 10, 2026, drawing 1-1 with UD Las Palmas at La Rosaleda. Coach Juanfran Funes praised his team's mental resilience after conceding an early goal, emphasizing the crucial support from the home crowd ('La Rosaleda carried us on a wave'). He highlighted the importance of staying calm, managing substitutions due to tight schedules, and the commitment of all players, including those not playing. Funes expressed pride in the community's enthusiasm and noted the team's growth, looking ahead to the final against Almería with one less day of rest.
Últimas NoticiasFunes: 'This doesn't end here' after Málaga reach promotion playoff final
Juanfran Funes, coach of Málaga CF, celebrated his team's qualification for the promotion playoff final after eliminating Las Palmas. In a post-match press conference, Funes used a boxing metaphor to describe the team's resilience, noting they took an early 'left hook' but did not fall. He acknowledged areas for improvement, particularly in the final third during the first half, but praised the team for staying in the game. Funes also commended Las Palmas for a great match and highlighted the deeper significance of the achievement, stating the team is building a future and creating roots for 'Malaguismo.' He emphasized that the journey continues, as the promotion final now begins. The article, published by Mundo Deportivo on June 10, 2026, captures Funes's emotional and forward-looking remarks.
FútbolMalaga Coach Funes Warns: 'More Than Half Left to Do' After Narrow Win
Malaga CF coach Juanfran Funes tempered post-match euphoria after a 0-1 away victory against Las Palmas, stating 'there may be more than half left to do' in the promotion playoff tie. Despite his team registering over a dozen shots and four on target (double Las Palmas' count), Funes urged restraint, warning that Wednesday's return leg could bring a radically different scenario. He emphasized the need for intense concentration and maintaining their identity, noting that past results hold no value now. Funes also addressed a potential penalty on Dotor, calling for use of VAR tools, while praising the referee's overall performance. He highlighted the team's physical endurance and thanked fans for their unwavering support, describing the collective effort as 'the most beautiful part' of their promotion push.
Últimas NoticiasMalaga Coach Funes Cautions: 'More Than Half Left to Do' After Narrow Win
Malaga CF coach Juanfran Funes tempered post-match euphoria after a 0-1 away victory against Las Palmas, emphasizing that the tie is far from decided. Speaking at a press conference, Funes noted his team had over a dozen shots and four on target, double that of the hosts. He called for restraint and full concentration on the upcoming second leg, warning that the opponent could change tactics and pose a greater threat. Funes praised his players' fitness and the unwavering support of fans, who escorted the team to the airport. He also addressed a potential penalty incident involving Dotor, urging the use of VAR to ensure correct decisions. The coach stressed that past results hold no value and that maintaining identity and effort is crucial to achieving promotion to La Liga.
Últimas NoticiasMálaga CF Coach Funes Previews Playoff Clash Against UD Las Palmas
Málaga CF head coach Juanfran Funes held a press conference ahead of the team's playoff match against UD Las Palmas on Sunday at 9:00 PM. Funes acknowledged Las Palmas' experience and superior possession, noting they were built for direct promotion. He emphasized that Málaga must rely on talent, energy, and enthusiasm to compensate for their lack of playoff experience. Funes stated the team will not speculate or play defensively, insisting on maintaining their daring identity. He updated the squad's physical condition, noting some players cannot play full matches and that squad rotation will be key. Funes described the playoff as a new competition separate from the regular season, with the goal of reaching a promotion final. He also noted this is his first playoff for promotion to the First Division, drawing on his experience from nine lower-division playoffs.
Últimas NoticiasMálaga CF Coach Funes: 'We Are Not Going to Speculate' Ahead of Playoff Against UD Las Palmas
Málaga CF head coach Juanfran Funes held a press conference ahead of the team's playoff match against UD Las Palmas on Sunday at 9:00 PM. Funes acknowledged Las Palmas' greater experience, noting that several of their players have previously been promoted to La Liga, but emphasized that his team's talent, energy, and enthusiasm can compensate. He stated that Málaga will not speculate or play for a draw, and that daring, work, discipline, and sacrifice define their identity. Funes also discussed squad rotation, noting that some players cannot play full matches and that broad participation is expected. He described the playoff as a new competition separate from the regular season, and stressed the importance of seizing the opportunity. This is Funes' first playoff for promotion to the First Division, though he has experience in lower-division playoffs.
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