On This Day: Valencia CF win the title on the final day of the 1970/71 season

A defeat has never been so sweet for Valencia CF as on April 18th, 1971, when a loss at Sarriá ended in celebration as they lifted the LaLiga title. A draw would have been enough to ensure the team the title, but things were not quite so straightforward: RCD Espanyol bested them by a single goal, leading to an anxious wait to find out the score in the other big game in the title chase, between Atletico Madrid and FC Barcelona. That contest ended in a draw, meaning Valencia CF were crowned champions for the first time in 24 years.

Alfredo Di Stéfano had barely any coaching experience before taking charge of the club, but had put together a solid unit with a winning mentality. The defence was the strong point, conceding just 19 goals in 30 games.
The game against Espanyol provided a legendary image of Di Stefano in the dugout in the final minutes, asking fans with radios to tell him the score at Manzanares.

Thousands of fans had made the trip north to Barcelona in expectation of a title win, and the celebration was euphoric. It did not come without some nervous moments, but Valencia CF were worthy champions, crowned on the final day of the season.