Real Oviedo and Espanyol are set to clash in a highly anticipated Segunda Division playoff final. With both teams vying for a spot in Spain's top flight, the match promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Here's a detailed preview of the game, including predictions, team news, and form analysis.
Match Preview
Real Oviedo's Journey
Real Oviedo, absent from La Liga since the 2000-01 season, have had a challenging history, including stints in the fourth tier.
The Blues have been competing in the Segunda Division since 2015-16 and are now just two games away from a monumental return to the top flight.
They narrowly secured sixth place in the league, edging out Racing Santander on goal difference. In the semi-finals, they overcame Eibar with a 2-0 victory in the second leg after a goalless first leg.
Espanyol's Season
Espanyol, aiming for an immediate return to La Liga after finishing 19th last season, have been impressive in the Segunda Division.
They finished fourth in the regular season, just three points behind second-placed Real Valladolid, and have lost only seven times in the league.
The Catalan side brings an 18-game unbeaten streak into this final, having beaten Sporting Gijon 1-0 on aggregate in the semi-finals.
Team News
Real Oviedo
Real Oviedo will be missing several key players for the first leg.
David Costas, Santi Cazorla, Mario Hernandez, and Rodrigo Tarin are all sidelined. Head coach Luis Carrion is expected to stick with the team that performed well in the semi-finals, with Borja Baston likely starting on the bench.
Sebas Moyano, with nine goals this season, will play a crucial role from midfield.
Espanyol
Espanyol will be without Omar Sadik and Edu Exposito due to injuries, while Omar El Hilali is suspended. Oscar Gil is set to replace El Hilali.
The attacking duo of Martin Braithwaite and Javi Puado, who have combined for 37 goals this season, will be crucial for Espanyol.
Predicted Lineups
Real Oviedo: Romon; Rozada, Luengo, Calvo, Pomares; Luismi, Colombatto; Moyano, Seoane, De la Fuente; Alemao
Espanyol: J Garcia; Gil, Calero, Cabrera, Milla; Carreras, Bare, Gragera, Melamed; Puado, Braithwaite
Prediction
Both teams have shown resilience and quality to reach this stage. Real Oviedo's home advantage in the first leg could be significant, but Espanyol's strong form and defensive solidity make them tough opponents.
A tightly contested match is expected, with a 1-1 draw being a likely outcome in the first leg.
Oviedo 
Espanyol 
