Eight years after being told he might never play again, 40-year-old Santi Cazorla delivered a moment of magic that will be etched in Real Oviedo's history. The former Arsenal midfielder came off the bench at half-time with his side trailing 1-0 to Almeria in the La Liga play-off semi-final second leg. Within four minutes, Cazorla scored a breathtaking free-kick with his weaker left foot, securing a 3-2 aggregate win for Oviedo.

Cazorla's journey has been nothing short of inspirational. After suffering a severe Achilles injury in 2016, he underwent 11 surgeries, including a skin graft from his left arm to his right ankle. Doctors once told him he should be content with walking again, but Cazorla defied the odds, returning to professional football and continuing to perform at the highest level.

"I'm just trying to enjoy what is left of my career, knowing that the end is closer," Cazorla said after the match. "I try to enjoy myself, which is the most important thing. I was sad that I wouldn't start the game but I knew that this game was important. I'm happy I was able to help the team."

Cazorla's career highlights include two European Championships with Spain and six successful years at Arsenal, where he made 180 appearances. After leaving Arsenal in 2018, he spent two years at Villarreal and three years in Qatar before returning to his boyhood club, Real Oviedo, in 2023. His goal now is to help Oviedo return to La Liga for the first time since 2001.

Oviedo will face either Mirandes or Racing Santander in the play-off final, with Cazorla's leadership and experience set to be crucial. This season has been a testament to his resilience and passion for the game, proving that age is just a number when it comes to delivering on the big stage.