Matchday 23 in LaLiga Smartbank saw Real Oviedo face Albacete on the final Saturday afternoon in January. The match saw tributes paid to Pablo Cortijo, a loyal fan of Los Azules who recently passed away.
With Ziganda in self-isolation at home after coming into contact with somebody who has tested positive for Covid-19, Bingen Arostegi took charge of Real Oviedo today. Los Azules opted for a starting eleven which was very similar to the side seen last weekend against Logroñés, with Grippo and Tejera coming in as the only changes. The Asturians began today's game well, but Albacete won it in the second half through a set-piece goal.
Real Oviedo dominated the first half of the match, demonstrating defensive solidity and breaking into the box on several occasions, but they were unable to convert any of their chances.
Los Azules once again started the second half the stronger of the twosides, as they recovered the ball in the opposition half and looked to exploit crosses from the full backs. Albacete sat deep in their own half and tried to use long balls on the counter to threaten the Carbayón defence. The visitors eventually took the lead from a corner kick. Real Oviedo pushed on after the setback, but barely created any chances against the away side's defence. The match ended with Borja Valle hitting the post from a free kick.
Real Oviedo will be back in training tomorrow as they begin to prepare for the next fixture. The next match will see them face Cartagena, with kick-off at 16:00 on Saturday 6th February at Municipal de Cartagonova.
