Newcomers Real Oviedo host Real Sociedad in the third round, as both sides chase their first win of the season. And while playing in the top flight is still new to the Carbayones, the Ryals can't afford more mistakes this early in the season.
After a sensational season in La Liga 2, it quickly became clear that Real Oviedo will struggle far more in the elite. While they drew one of the toughest schedules to kick off the season, facing Villarreal and Real Madrid, they never came close to scoring in both fixtures and remain the only team in the league without a single goal.
After their worst La Liga campaign in close to a decade, Real Sociedad began the new season with a new manager, as Sergio Francisco got promoted from the B team. The lack of European football should be considered a positive, as the team can focus on contesting the top positions while their direct rivals play on multiple fronts. Overall, the Ryals' recent campaign wasn't as bad, as the team reached the 1/8 finals of the Europa League and semis of the Copa del Rey.
How the bookies view it: The Carbayones are in a familiar position
For the third time in a row, Real Oviedo will enter the match as heavy underdogs, although the gap is not that significant this time. Bookmakers expect a competitive fixture and give Real Sociedad 5/4 to win. Alternatively, you can back the hosts at 5/2 or the draw at 21/10.
Recent head to head: Back together after 25 years
Real Oviedo returned to the elite after 25 years spent moving up and down the ladder. Logically, there isn't any recent data we could use to back our predictions. Oviedo and Sociedad last met in 2014 the Copa del Rey, while their last encounter in La Liga dates back to April 2001. The Ryals lead in the all-time record with 10 wins to seven, while another 10 H2Hs ended level. And for the record, Sociedad are unbeaten in the last four meetings, winning three times.
Players to watch: Escandell is a solid keeper
Since Real Oviedo produced nothing in the final third and not a single player impressed us, we'd stay away from any goalscorer bets on their end. But the same goes for Real Sociedad, who have not yet shown their full potential. This is a dangerous fixture and we have an unusual idea. Oviedo's goalkeeper, Aaron Escandell, has made the most saves in the league after two rounds – a total of 15. If your bookie offers such sophisticated player markets, you can back him to make 3+ saves again. For example, Betano priced this line at 13/20.
Probable line-ups
Real Oviedo: Escandell, Alhassane, Calvo, Costas, Vidal, Sibo, Reina, Chaira, Ilic, Hassan, Rondon
Real Sociedad: Remiro, Aramburu, Zubeldia, Caleta-Car, Munoz, Gorrotxategi, Marin, Kubo, Oyarzabal, Barrenetxea, Oskarsson
Anything else catch the eye?
Real Oviedo couldn't even dent Villarreal and Real Madrid's defences in the first two rounds. And while Real Sociedad are not exactly at their level right now, we have to back the visitors to get a difficult but flawless win on Saturday. We don't expect too much action and would risk an under 2.5 as well. But it feels unnecessary, as Sociedad's odds are high enough for good profit.
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