Preview: Real Oviedo vs. Eibar – Segunda Division Playoff Semi-Final
Real Oviedo and Eibar are set to clash in the first leg of the Segunda Division playoff semi-final at Estadio Carlos Tartiere on Saturday evening. Eibar narrowly missed out on automatic promotion, finishing third, while Real Oviedo secured a playoff spot by edging out Racing Santander on goal difference.
Match Preview:
Real Oviedo, returning to the Segunda Division after a long absence from La Liga, will be looking to secure a positive result in the semi-final after a mixed end to their regular season. Eibar, on the other hand, will aim to continue their strong away form and progress to the final.
Eibar finished 20th in the La Liga campaign and have missed out on promotion in the last two seasons despite playoff appearances. With key players available for selection, Eibar will look to capitalize on their away form and secure a victory in the first leg.
Real Oviedo will be without Mario Hernandez and Rodrigo Tarin, with doubts over David Costas and Santi Cazorla’s availability. Borja Baston and Jonathan Dubasin could feature in the starting lineup, while Paulinho de la Fuente is set to lead the attack.
Eibar will welcome back Anaitz Arbilla and Stefan Simic, but will miss Jon Bautista and Alvaro Tejero due to injuries. Ager Aketxe and Stoichkov will be key for Eibar’s attacking threat, aiming to secure an advantage in the first leg.
Possible Lineups:
Real Oviedo: Roman; Rozada, Luengo, Calvo, Pomares; Seoane, Colombatto; Dubasin, De la Fuente, B Sanchez; Baston
Eibar: Zidane; Corpas, Arbilla, Berrocal, Gutierrez; Nolaskoain, Pereira; Aketxe, Soriano, Stoichkov; Leon
Prediction:
Real Oviedo 1-1 Eibar
A tightly contested match is expected, with both teams aiming to secure a positive result. A draw in the first leg could set up an exciting second leg in the semi-final playoff clash.