Real Oviedo vs Espanyol Match Preview: Predictions, Team News, and Lineups Unveiled

Real Oviedo and Espanyol are set to clash in La Liga’s eighth gameweek on Friday evening, aiming to secure crucial points. The match will take place at Estadio Carlos Tartiere.

Match Preview: Real Oviedo vs Espanyol

Currently, Real Oviedo is in 17th place in La Liga, having accumulated only six points from their first eight matches. The team has recorded two wins and six losses, leaving them just one point above the relegation zone, with Mallorca currently at the bottom of the table.

This season marks Oviedo’s long-awaited return to Spain’s top flight for the first time since 2000-01. The team secured their promotion via the Segunda Division playoffs last season. Their primary objective is to avoid relegation, aiming for a finish above 17th place.

Managerial Changes at Oviedo

Following a disappointing 2-0 home defeat to Levante, former head coach Veljko Paunovic was dismissed. Luis Carrion, who previously managed the club and led them to 20 wins in 42 games from September 2023 to June 2024, is back at the helm.

Espanyol’s Current Standings

Espanyol currently occupies the ninth spot in La Liga, with a total of 12 points from eight matches. Their record includes three wins, three draws, and two losses. However, the Catalan side has struggled recently, managing only two points from their last four fixtures, which included draws against Girona and Valencia, and losses to Real Madrid and Real Betis.

Prior to the international break, Espanyol fell 2-1 at home to Real Betis. The team aims to return to winning form against Oviedo. Last season, they finished 14th, indicating room for improvement this year.

Historical Context

The two teams last met in La Liga back in March 2001, finishing in a 2-2 draw. Espanyol has been relatively successful against Oviedo, losing just one of their last nine encounters.

Team News

• Real Oviedo:
• Luka Ilic returns from suspension.
• Alvaro Lemos is sidelined due to a knee injury.
• Nacho Vidal’s participation is uncertain due to a hamstring issue.
• Salomon Rondon scored his first goal of the season recently.

• Espanyol:
• Javi Puado is out until December due to injury.
• Urko Gonzalez is expected to replace Puado in the starting lineup.
• Pere Milla is in good form, having scored three goals in six games.

Predicted Lineups

Real Oviedo

Espanyol

Match Prediction

As both teams seek to secure vital points, the match is expected to be closely contested. While Carrion aims for a strong start as the newly reinstated Oviedo manager, Espanyol’s solid performance this season suggests a potential draw. Many anticipate a final score of 1-1.