The fifth tier of Spanish football, Tercera Federación, began this weekend with the first matchday. The championship features 18 teams and will run from September 5th-6th until May 8th-9th. The champion will be directly promoted to Segunda Federación, while teams ranked second through fifth will compete in the promotion play-offs. The bottom three teams will be relegated to Liga Autonómica.
The competition started on Saturday with two matches. Acero hosted Crevillente Deportivo at El Fornás, marking the return of national football after two years. The Alicante-based team aims for stability. Simultaneously, Hércules B and Torrevieja faced off in Alicante. The 'Hércules' reserve team begins its second season in the category, while Torrevieja earned promotion last campaign.
Buñol and Atzeneta played one of the most attractive duels of the day at Beltrán Báguena. Buñol, following its best historical finish, aims higher, while Atzeneta seeks to change its recent dynamic after a challenging season.
Saturday concluded with the match between Torrent CF and Español de San Vicente at San Gregorio stadium. After relegation, the 'Taronja' club has significantly revamped its squad with the goal of returning to Segunda Federación soon. The Alicante team, meanwhile, hopes to avoid the struggles of the previous season.
Sunday's fixtures began with the debut of Eldense B against Torrellano at Viejo Pepico Amat. Torrellano seeks stability after an inconsistent season. Additionally, the Pamesa Cerámica Sports City hosted the clash between Roda and Ontinyent 1931, two teams expected to contend for promotion.
The Castellón derby between CD Soneja and Villarreal C took place at El Arco. The home team starts the season aiming for solidity, while the 'Groguet' second reserve team seeks to replicate its strong performance from last year, which led to a promotion play-off appearance.
Finally, Nou Camp de Morvedre hosted a 'play-off level' match between Atlético Saguntino and Atlético Levante. With squads built for promotion, both teams fell in the play-offs last season and aim to achieve a different outcome this campaign. The newly promoted Vall de Uxó and Utiel also join this league.
