Nacho Vidal The Hero as Real Oviedo Win in Almería

Real Oviedo today defeated UD Almería 2-1 away from home in the playoff semifinal first leg, thanks to a stoppage time winner from Nacho Vidal. The win sees Los Azules take a huge step in the first knockout fixture, as the side will take a lead into the return leg at the Carlos Tartiere.

 

The return of Sibo and Alemão to the starting eleven were the main changes made by Paunovic for today's encounter. Los Carbayones emerged strongly, and quickly took the lead. Hassan's shot from the edge of the box was denied by the keeper, but Nacho Vidal was on hand to capitalise on the rebound and open the scoring in the 14th minute. However, the joy was shortlived, and two minutes later Arribas levelled the scores.

 

Rubi's team took a step forward after the interval and provided a constant threat. Melero went close with a header, but a fantastic intervention from Nacho Vidal on the goalline kept the score all-square. Substitute Lázaro then struck the woodwork with another header. Paunovic decided to make a triple change in the 67th minute to try to counter UD Almería's domination, bringing on Paraschiv, De la Hoz, and Paulino de la Fuente. The Real Oviedo players threw their bodies on the line to maintain the draw, but in the end their reward would be infinitely better. In one of the final passages of play in the match, Nacho Vidal headed home from a fine Paraschiv cross to put the cherry on the cake and make himself undoubtedly the hero of the day.

The first battle has now been overcome, but the final outcome will be determined at the Carlos Tartiere.