Espanyol vs R. Oviedo Prediction & Betting Tips (23 June)

Espanyol Barcelona conceded their first defeat since February 10 in the first leg of this final play-off to reach La Liga, which they left last year with a 1-0 defeat at Oviedo. Indeed, finishing 4th in the championship, the Catalans were logically qualified to participate in these play-offs and they took out the very good opposition of Sporting Gijon in the previous round without dominating their subject in the return match at home, particularly in the 2nd period victory 0 -1 on the outward journey, 0-0 on the return leg. The worrying factor finally appears there for Martin Braithwaite's teammates, who were not reassured during their last match at home. However, we can also remember that the locals have only lost one match in Llobregat in 2024, on the evening of January 6, for the reception of Getafe in the 1/16th final of the Copa del Rey 0-1. The last defeat at home in the league dates back to October 20 against D2 champion Leganes.

 9 years, 9 years that supporters have been waiting to see their team fight to rejoin La Liga, which they left during the 2000-01 season, more than two decades. Tonight is the day or never for a project not necessarily expected to play for promotion but which, like a team like Girona two years ago, offers itself a play-off final having finished just in 6th place. Real Oviedo will travel with the wind in their sails following their success without conceding a goal in the first leg 1-0 knowing that the latter still sent Eibar, 3rd in the championship at the end of the regular season to Cancun 0-0 on the first leg at home, 0-2 victory on the return leg in the Basque Country.

OUT for a while now, Edu Exposito will watch the match from the stands like Pol Lozano (still injured). In terms of good news, these are simply the only two absences since the suspended El Hilali (38 appearances in the league this season) should once again be eligible for his coach. The club, the managers, the staff and the supporters first and foremost will expect a lot from the offensive duo of Braithwaite (22 goals, 3 assists) and Javi Puado (14 goals, 2 assists). Opposite, announced uncertain for the first round , the veteran but legend of Spanish football, Santi Cazorla (39) took his place on the bench but did not play and is not expected to be physically ready for even five minutes of playing time.

Injured and not one appearance in the league this season, Tarin will be far from claiming a spot in the group, the same for Mario Hernandez and David Costas (injured). On the other hand, the only scorer in the first leg and already a scorer in the return against Eibar, Alemao (7 goals) will be on the trip like Moyano (9 goals, 4 assists) and Paulino de la Fuente (9 pawns ).