The keys behind a historic campaign for Getafe

On 15 May 2016, Getafe CF experienced one of the toughest moments in the club's history, with relegation from LaLiga Santander confirmed after a 2-1 loss at the Benito Villamarin, bringing 12 consecutive top-flight seasons to an end. Fast forward 1,098 days and the story is most different.

On 18 May 2019, the Madrid-based side rounded off the 2018/19 LaLiga Santander campaign in style. Despite not quite managing to finish fourth, the team came fifth on 59 points, a club record in the top flight, surpassing the previous highest points haul of 58 in 2009/10 under Michel.

Consistency

Getafe are defined by consistency, which is an attribute that coach Jose Bordalas exemplifies, having taken over the reins in September 2016 when the club found itself second from bottom in LaLiga 1|2|3. The Spaniard guided the team back to LaLiga Santander which was followed by an eighth-placed finish and the best campaign in the club's history.

Although the team had a good chance of finishing in the top four, the coach was still certainly pleased with the final position. "There's no bitter taste left in my mouth. The fans have recognised the team's hard work and commitment. I thank them, the president and the players."

Defensive solidity

A strong rearguard has definitely been one of the fundamental keys to success. Getafe's defensive statistics have been outstanding, with their goal breached just 35 times. Only Atletico Madrid have conceded fewer goals (29) while Valencia CF have an identical record.

As well as the full-backs and centre-backs, goalkeeper David Soria is largely responsible for that impressive defensive solidity, with the Spaniard enjoying a sensational debut season at the club in which he made 102 saves during 3,300 minutes of playing time.

A lethal strikeforce

The double JM duo of Jaime Mata and Jorge Molina has given every LaLiga Santander a headache, with the forwards registering 14 goals each, while Angel Rodriguez has chipped in with eight. The trio has been responsible for 36 of Getafe's 48 goals.