With enforced chances due to suspension and illness, the biggest piece of team news saw Rozada opt for Javi Mier alongside Edu Cortina and Jimmy in central midfield against Málaga. Meanwhile, Mossa came in at full back, with Christian moving to centre back in Arribas' absence. There was a smaller crowd in attendance than usual due to the match clashing with the traditional Christmas parades, but despite everything, a lot of little ones were still at the Tartiere to welcome the Three Kings to the stadium at halftime.
The match began with Málaga dominating the ball in the opening minutes, but Real Oviedo were not overly troubled. Edu Cortina's injury saw Lolo replace him in the fifteenth minute. The Asturians' goal came from their second attack. Sangalli went on a fine individual run, beating a couple of men and firing home from outside the box to open the scoring. The match continued in a similar fashion after the goal, and Bárcenas and then Javi Mier had the best chances to extend the hosts' lead prior to the break.
Real Oviedo went looking to double their lead in the second half but were unable to do so. From one of Málaga's attacks, VAR ruled that a free kick had struck a hand inside the area and awarded the visitors a penalty, which the Andalusian side converted to equalise. Ibra came on and Real Oviedo had a couple of chances to retake the lead, but they couldn't make the most of the opportunities. Not even the introduction of Obeng nor seven minutes of stoppage time were enough to give Los Azules the victory.
Real Oviedo will get back to work on Tuesday with a double training session.
