New matchday in the First Division and a new away game for Real Oviedo. After the clash in Getafe, the blue team played away from the Asturian capital once again, this time in Elche. Aware of the importance of earning their first points away from home, the team led by Veljko Paunovic arrived at the Martínez Valero with a starting eleven consisting of: Aarón Escandell, Nacho Vidal, Calvo, Carmo, Rahim, Hassan, Dendoncker, Sibo, Brekalo, Ilic, and Rondón.
Right at the start of the match, Rondón had the clearest chance after an error in Sarabia's team's buildup. The Venezuelan rounded the goalkeeper but was not entirely accurate in his finish, and his shot went wide. After that great opportunity, Elche CF did not forgive on their first chance, and in the eighth minute, André Silva made it 1-0 after a great play by Germán Valera.
The home team maintained possession of the ball during the first 45 minutes and dominated the game, while Real Oviedo tried to create danger near Peña's goal but without success.
After the break, the script did not change, and Elche came out onto the field with renewed energy, looking for a second goal. Rafa Mir hit the crossbar after a great team play, and shortly after, Paunovic decided to bring on Cazorla and Chaira. As soon as they entered the field, a good one-two between them created a great chance for Dendoncker, which was cleared by a defender from the opposing team.
Rondón had another opportunity after a mix-up between the goalkeeper and the defender, but the goal still eluded Real Oviedo. Nacho Vidal and Ilic had to be substituted due to injuries, with Lucas and Forés being the chosen replacements. Additionally, Reina came on for Sibo, exhausting Paunovic's substitutions.
During the last quarter of an hour, Oviedo pushed hard and created chances. Forés beat Iñaki Peña, but the goal was disallowed due to a prior offside by Lucas. Rondón also had another chance, but the equalizing goal still did not come, and the match ended that way. A narrow defeat at the Martínez Valero in a game where Real Oviedo improved with the second-half changes but could not break through the home team's defense.
Now, with little time to rest, the team must already focus on the clash against FC Barcelona next Thursday at the Carlos Tartiere.
