Athletic Club and Oviedo Aim for Victory in San Mamés Showdown

Athletic Club and Oviedo are set to face off at San Mamés in a highly anticipated match, as both teams are eager to secure a victory after more than a month without earning three points. This encounter is particularly significant for reshaping their standings before the upcoming international break. Athletic has not won in the league since October 4 against Mallorca, while Oviedo’s last victory dates back to September 30.

Athletic arrives at the match in a difficult situation, grappling with a roster heavily affected by injuries. The head coach, Valverde, has not disclosed the list of convocated players, but notably, Yuri and Guruzeta, who missed the match against Newcastle, are available for selection. There is uncertainty surrounding Nico Williams, as the club is hesitant to take risks with his pubic issues, which may result in his absence for yet another match. Additionally, Valverde will have the assistance of Hierro and Selton, two young players who made their debuts on Wednesday and were not part of the Bilbao Athletic squad to bolster the first team. After two consecutive league defeats, this match against the Asturians is crucial for seeking a turning point just before the break.

This will mark Oviedo’s first visit to the newly renovated San Mamés, as the last encounter between the two clubs occurred in 2011 during the Copa del Rey, two years prior to the inauguration of the Athletic’s home ground. The last two league matches between Athletic and Oviedo ended in significant victories, with Oviedo triumphing 5-0 at the Tartiere and Athletic winning 4-0 at San Mamés.

Oviedo arrives at San Mamés determined to continue their positive trajectory in terms of gameplay, while simultaneously aiming for a victory that could help them escape the bottom of the league standings. A win would not only lift them off the bottom but also serve to ease tensions ahead of the international break. Coach Luis Carrión has maintained the same squad from the previous match, despite the absences of Santi Cazorla, Ovie Ejaria, and Josip Brekalo. Youngster Pablo Agudín has again made the squad, hoping to gain more playing time with the team.

Given the strong performances in their last two outings, it is expected that Carrión will retain the same starting eleven. This would mean Fede Viñas is likely to assume a defensive role on the right, while also partnering with Rondón in attacking sequences.

Carrión is still in search of his first victory at the top level and might find a valuable ally in Agudín. The academy graduate has emerged as a beacon of hope for Oviedo fans, and his spirited display against Osasuna could even pave the way for a starting position, although competition for his spot is fierce as he continues to navigate his development.

The blue supporters are anticipated to show up in full force, with numerous Oviedo fans expected to fill the stands at San Mamés, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to celebrate a victory in this dream venue.

The match could very much hinge on the performances of the goalkeepers: Unai Simón for Athletic and Escandell for Oviedo. Both are among the most reliable keepers in LaLiga, with Escandell notably making a high number of saves this season.