Thu Sep 25 19:30:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Barcelona travels to face Real Oviedo in a La Liga match, their first meeting since 2001. Barcelona has been in good form recently, winning three straight games, but faces injury concerns with key players like Gavi, Lopez, and Yamal sidelined. Real Oviedo, recently promoted, are struggling, having scored just once in their first five matches. Veteran Santi Cazorla will start for Oviedo. Barcelona is heavily favored to win despite the injuries.

**News Article:**

**Barcelona Favored in Return to Oviedo After 24 Years, Despite Injury Woes**

Oviedo, Spain – Barcelona faces newly promoted Real Oviedo in La Liga midweek action, marking their first encounter since 2001. The reigning champions arrive at the Estadio Carlos Tartiere on a high after a dominant 3-0 victory over Getafe and a strong Champions League win against Newcastle United. However, Hansi Flick’s side will be without key players due to injury, including Gavi, who is expected to be out for several months after knee surgery, and Lopez. Yamal is also unavailable for selection.

Real Oviedo, managed by Veljko Paunović, have struggled since their return to the top flight, managing only three points and scoring just one goal in their opening five matches. The team hopes the return of Federico Viñas from suspension can help bolster their attack. However, they will be boosted by the inclusion of club legend Santi Cazorla who is making his first start of the season.

Despite Barcelona’s injury concerns, with Marcus Rashford, Gerard Martín, and Dani Olmo all poised for a potential nod, the Catalans are considered strong favorites. Ferran Torres has been in excellent form and is expected to lead the line.

Football analysts predict a comfortable 3-0 victory for Barcelona, anticipating their midfield dominance and attacking prowess will prove too much for the struggling Real Oviedo side. The match offers Barcelona a chance to keep pace with league leaders Real Madrid, while Oviedo seeks to ignite their season with a monumental upset.

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