Football returned to the Carlos Tartiere. The Carbayón team made their 2026 home debut against Real Betis Balompié. For this match, and due to forced changes, Guillermo Almada presented the following starting eleven: Aarón Escandell, Rahim, Costas, Carmo, Lucas, Sibo, Colombatto, Reina, Hassan, Ilyas, and Forés.
Real Oviedo tried to show from the start the image seen in Mendizorroza against Deportivo Alavés, although the match was different. The Andalusians came onto the field eager to make up for the tough defeat at the Bernabéu in the previous matchday, and Cucho gave the first warning. A great shot from the Betis forward hit the woodwork.
An error in Aarón Escandell's delivery also meant a good opportunity for Real Betis. However, Fornals' shot was caught by the Carbayón goalkeeper. Our team also had an opportunity with a cross from Hassan to the far post that narrowly missed a finish from Forés or Reina. After the first half-hour of the match, a loss of possession by Sibo in midfield allowed Cucho to see Aarón off his line and try his luck from very far out. His shot, fortunately for Oviedo, hit the crossbar.
After the break, Ilyas had the first chance following a cross from Hassan, but his shot was blocked by a defender. In the 54th minute, Fonseca replaced Sibo in midfield, and Oviedo tried to hold more possession and take a step forward. Right after the substitution, Antony played a great through ball to Cucho, and Aarón, with a good save, prevented the 0-1.
In the 64th minute, Ilyas Chaira sent the Tartiere into a frenzy with a stunning goal, putting Oviedo ahead. A great shot from outside the box by the winger marked his first goal of the season. By the 76th minute, Guillermo Almada made changes, bringing Brekalo and Borbas onto the field for fresh legs. When it seemed like the three points were secured, Lo Celso equalized in a controversial play where Real Oviedo players claimed a foul, but the referee did not call anything. Javi López and Dendoncker were the last blue substitutions, but nothing changed.
Another draw for Real Oviedo, who continue to come close to victory but, for one reason or another, can't quite achieve it. Next stop, El Sadar against Osasuna.
