In the upcoming La Liga match, Real Oviedo will host Espanyol as both teams strive for a much-needed victory. This clash takes place on Friday evening, marking gameweek eight of the 2025-26 season.
Current Standings and Form
Real Oviedo is struggling at 17th place in the La Liga table, having secured only six points from eight matches. They have two wins and six losses, putting them perilously close to the relegation zone. Meanwhile, Espanyol is positioned ninth with twelve points, reflecting a record of three wins, three draws, and two losses.
Real Oviedo’s Recent Struggles
- Current standing: 17th in La Liga.
- Points: 6 from 8 matches.
- Recent form: 2 wins and 6 losses.
Having returned to La Liga for the first time since the 2000-01 season via last year’s Segunda Division playoffs, Oviedo aims to maintain a position above the relegation zone. Following a disappointing 2-0 loss to Levante, the club has appointed Luis Carrion as their new manager. Carrion, who previously managed the team, returns after a brief hiatus.
Espanyol’s Performance This Season
- Current standing: 9th in La Liga.
- Points: 12 from 8 matches.
- Recent form: 3 wins, 3 draws, 2 losses.
Espanyol has had a mixed bag so far this season. Despite a strong start, they have collected only two points from their last four outings, including draws against Girona and Valencia and losses to Real Madrid and Real Betis. Their last match before the break ended in a 2-1 defeat to Real Betis.
Team News
Real Oviedo will welcome back Luka Ilic after his suspension, although they will be without Alvaro Lemos due to a knee injury. Nacho Vidal is expected to return from a hamstring issue. Salomon Rondon, who recently scored his first goal of the season against Valencia, will likely lead the offense.
Espanyol faces the absence of Javi Puado, who is out until December due to injury. Head coach Manolo Gonzalez may only make one alteration in the starting lineup, bringing in Urko Gonzalez in place of Puado. Pere Milla, who has impressed this season with three goals, will be a key player for Espanyol.
Possible Lineups
Real Oviedo
- Goalkeeper: Escandell
- Defenders: Vidal, Carmo, Bailly, Alhassane
- Midfielders: Colombatto, Dendoncker
- Forwards: Hassan, Ilic, Chaira, Rondon
Espanyol
- Goalkeeper: Dmitrovic
- Defenders: El Hilali, Riedel, Cabrera, Romero
- Midfielders: Gonzalez, Lozano
- Forwards: Dolan, Exposito, Milla, Fernandez
Match Prediction
Both teams are eager to clinch a victory. While Carrion aims for a fresh start with Oviedo, Espanyol will look to capitalize on their solid season. The match is expected to be close, with a predicted score of 1-1 as both sides share the points.
