Betis Return to Oviedo After 26-Year Absence as Both Sides Desperate for Points
Manuel Pellegrini's men look to bounce back from Bernabéu thrashing while bottom-placed Oviedo seek first win since September in crucial LaLiga clash.
Two sides sharing the same desperation for three points but with vastly different season objectives face off as Real Betis make their long-awaited return to Oviedo after nearly 26 years away from the Asturian city.
Historical Context
You’d have to be a proper old geezer to remember Betis’ last visit to Oviedo in the top flight, coming before the new Carlos Tartiere stadium was even built. For the hosts, finding their last league victory against Los Verdiblancos requires an even deeper dive into the history books - all the way back to 1991.
Oviedo’s Survival Mission
The home side find themselves in a right pickle at the bottom of the table:
- Rooted to the foot of LaLiga, six points from safety
- Without a win since late September (that’s a proper drought, innit)
- New manager Almada has brought some fresh air, securing two consecutive draws
- Key absences: striker Fede Viñas (suspended) and defender Bailly (injured)
- Forés and Carmo likely to step in as replacements
Almada’s approach of maintaining consistent team selection across his first two matches has shown promise, but the Uruguayan gaffer now faces the challenge of reshuffling his pack due to these crucial absences.
Betis Looking to Bounce Back
Pellegrini’s men need to put last weekend’s hammering at the Bernabéu in their rearview mirror:
- Currently risking disconnection from the European qualification spots
- Curiously winless against relegation-threatened teams this season (three draws)
- Several key absences including Bakambu (returned but not selected), AFCON participants Abde and Amrabat with Morocco, plus the injured Isco
- Rotation expected with Copa del Rey fixture looming next Wednesday
Key Midfield Battle
The engine room showdown between Colombatto and Marc Roca could prove decisive. Both midfielders bring similar qualities - physical presence, ball-winning ability, and the knack for making late runs into attacking positions. Whoever bosses the middle of the park might just swing this one.