Just when extra time seemed inevitable, Dzódic rose highest to write his name into UD Almería folklore. With the clock ticking towards the final whistle and both teams preparing for an additional 30 minutes, the defender produced a moment of pure quality, guiding a delicate header beyond Matthys to seal a dramatic 3-2 victory and send UD Almería through to the promotion play-off final.

The goal sparked scenes of jubilation inside a packed UDA Stadium, where 17,007 supporters witnessed an unforgettable contest that swung from one side to the other before reaching its thrilling conclusion.

The first half was defined more by tension than fluid football. Both UD Almería and CD Castellón enjoyed spells of possession, but clear-cut opportunities were scarce as the magnitude of the occasion weighed heavily on the contest.

The breakthrough arrived in the 41st minute through a familiar source. Embarba drove in from the flank, created space on the edge of the area and unleashed a powerful right-footed strike that flew past Matthys and into the net, giving the Rojiblancos a crucial lead just before the interval (1–0).

CD Castellón responded strongly after the restart. Cámara created an early opening following a UD Almería error in possession, but Jakobsen was unable to generate enough power with his close-range effort.

The visitors eventually found their equaliser in the 56th minute. Cala's delivery took a fortunate touch as it slipped between Andrés Fernández and his near post to level the score at 1-1.

UD Almería had opportunities to restore their advantage but were punished when CD Castellón made the most of one of their greatest strengths. A well-worked set-piece routine resulted in Sienra converting from a wide free-kick in the 70th minute, putting the visitors ahead and at that stage, on course for the play-off final (1–2).

The response from both the Indálicos and the supporters was immediate. In the 79th minute, Marcos Luna struck the crossbar after an inspired backheel assist from Miguel de la Fuente. It proved to be the warning sign. Just one minute later, Álex Muñoz produced an acrobatic finish full of determination and belief to make it 2-2 and reignite UD Almería’s hopes.

With momentum firmly on their side, Rubi’s men pushed relentlessly for a winner. It finally arrived in stoppage-time. Arnau Puigmal delivered a cross from the right and Dzódic adjusted brilliantly in mid-air before directing a perfectly placed header into the back of the net (3–2). The Stadium erupted as players, staff and supporters celebrated a goal that secured UD Almería’s place in the promotion play-off final.

The final whistle soon followed, confirming a comeback filled with character, resilience and belief. Step by step and through sheer determination, Rubi’s side kept alive their dream of returning to the top flight of Spanish football.