Real Oviedo and Real Betis are set to clash in a pivotal game where both teams see a golden opportunity to improve their standings. The home side, Real Oviedo, aims to capitalize on Real Betis’ recent struggles to secure much-needed victories. Conversely, Real Betis has a chance to break their losing streak against what is currently La Liga’s weakest team.
The match kicks off at 14:00 and will be broadcast on Movistar+. Turning sensations into results is the primary objective for Real Oviedo, who currently sit at the bottom of La Liga EA Sports with only 12 points, six points adrift of safety. This precarious position is further emphasized as direct rivals like Levante and Girona begin to secure wins.
Despite the team showing a better image under new coach Almada, they haven’t secured three points in a staggering 12 league matches. Although the fanbase has been critical of the board’s decisions, the team under Almada appears transformed and plays with a different spirit. However, the evident lack of quality within the squad, coupled with questionable transfer market activity, suggests that reinforcements might not be the immediate solution.
Almada is expected to field a consistent lineup, with the only uncertainty being whether Sibo will start or if Fonseca will make his debut in the starting eleven. Real Oviedo will be without Bailly and Nacho Vidal due to injury, and Viñas due to suspension.
Changing the image is crucial for Real Betis, who occupy 6th place with 28 points, just two points away from the European qualification spots. Their recent performance includes a heavy 4-1 defeat to Real Madrid, but more concerning than the scoreline was the team’s overall display, highlighting the importance of key players currently unavailable.
For this match, coach Pellegrini might introduce some changes to the lineup, seeking tactical variations to compensate for significant absences due to the Africa Cup of Nations. The midfield and left-wing positions have been particularly affected by these departures.
To cover for Abde’s absence on the left wing, Riquelme is expected to play a more prominent role, justifying the club’s investment in him. In midfield, Pellegrini is likely to bring Lo Celso into the starting XI, hoping he can recapture his form from previous seasons.
Aside from Amrabat, Abde, and Bakambu being away at the Africa Cup of Nations, Isco remains unavailable as he recovers from surgery.
Outstanding Players: For Real Oviedo, given their league position, few players have consistently performed at a high level this season. However, Aarón Escandell stands out as an exception. The goalkeeper has been one of La Liga’s best and is instrumental in Oviedo’s ability to still dream of survival.
Real Betis has more standout players. With Isco sidelined since the start of the season, Pablo Fornals has stepped up, earning a call-up to the national squad. Additionally, Betis boasts dangerous attacking players like Cucho, who has scored 8 goals this season, and Antony, who, despite a dip in form compared to last season, remains a threat with his individual brilliance on the wing.
What is the biggest challenge for Real Oviedo in this match? The biggest challenge for Real Oviedo is converting their improved performance under Almada into tangible results, as they have struggled to secure victories for 12 consecutive league games despite showing better form.
Probable Lineups:
Oviedo: Escandell; Lucas Ahijado, Costas, Carmo, Rahim; Colombatto, Fonseca, Reina; Brekalo, Chaira, Forés
Betis: Vallés; Bellerín, Bartra, Natan, Valentín Gómez; Deossa, Fornals, Lo Celso; Antony, Riquelme Cucho
