Real Oviedo went into today's Matchday 18 LaLiga Hypermotion fixture against RCD Espanyol looking to get back to winning ways. Los Azules were back at the Carlos Tartiere, but with several absences through injury and suspension. Luis Carrión opted for a starting eleven made up of Leo Román, Abel Bretones, Luengo, Costas, Lucas Ahijado, Luismi, Colombatto, Sebas, Seoane, Masca and Bastón.

The Asturians looked to play at a high tempo and dominate the match right from the first minute. The side was on top, and had the first clear chance of the encounter in the tenth minute. Borja Bastón picked the ball up following a defensive error, but his curled effort from range grazed the post. Sebas Moyano also went close to making it 1-0 following a fine team move, but the away keeper made a good save. In the 31st minute, however, Real Oviedo would finally get their reward through a Masca goal. The worst news of the half was the injury to David Costas, with Jimmy coming on his place just before half-time. The Galician defender was forced off just prior to the break, and his replacement almost extended the lead with one of his first touches. His side-footed effort from the edge of the box was tipped around the post for a corner by Pacheco.

 

Real Oviedo did not take the foot off the accelerator after the break and continued searching for the second. Masca tried his luck from a header in the 62nd minute, but was unable to convert. Sebas Moyano was putting in a great performance, and was relentless in his attempts to create down the left wing. Carlos Pomares, Sesé, and Alemão came off the bench during the second half, and the team's intensity did not drop. Colombatto added the cherry to the cake in stoppage time, firing home a long-range strike to seal the victory.

 

Today's 2-0 win and important three points saw the team climb the table, moving onto 25 points.