Real Madrid will be aiming to build early momentum in the 2025–26 La Liga campaign as they prepare to travel to the Estadio Carlos Tartiere on Sunday night to face newly-promoted Real Oviedo. The fixture, while seemingly straightforward on paper, carries layers of historical resonance, emotional weight, and strategic importance for both sides. For Los Blancos, it’s a chance to assert their dominance and refine their rhythm after a somewhat labored opening-day win over Osasuna. For Real Oviedo, it’s a moment of reckoning—a return to the top flight after more than two decades, and a chance to measure themselves against one of the most storied clubs in world football.
Real Madrid’s 1–0 victory over Osasuna last weekend was far from a vintage performance. Xabi Alonso’s men controlled possession and dictated tempo for large spells, but their attacking play lacked fluidity and penetration. It took a moment of brilliance from Kylian Mbappé—who marked his league debut with a decisive goal—to separate the sides. The Frenchman’s arrival has understandably dominated headlines, and while his impact was immediate, Alonso will be acutely aware that his team must improve collectively if they are to keep pace with Barcelona, who opened their campaign with a commanding win and look every bit the title favorites. The margin for error is razor-thin in a league where consistency is king, and Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against sides expected to struggle.
Real Oviedo, meanwhile, are living a dream that has been decades in the making. Their return to La Liga marks the culmination of years of rebuilding, resilience, and reinvention. Since their relegation in 2001, the club has endured a rollercoaster journey through the lower tiers of Spanish football, including stints in the third and even fourth divisions. Last season’s dramatic playoff triumph in the Segunda División was a testament to their grit and ambition, and while survival is the primary objective this term, the emotional significance of hosting Real Madrid in their first home game back in the top flight cannot be overstated. The Estadio Carlos Tartiere will be a cauldron of noise and nostalgia, with fans eager to witness their team compete on the grandest domestic stage once again.
Veljko Paunović, tasked with steering Oviedo through the treacherous waters of La Liga, knows the scale of the challenge ahead. His side opened their campaign with a 2–0 defeat away to Villarreal—a result that was perhaps expected given the quality of the opposition and the difficulty of playing on the road in gameweek one. Still, the performance left much to be desired. Oviedo struggled to create meaningful chances and looked vulnerable defensively, particularly in transition. The absence of key players such as Álvaro Lemos and the fitness concerns surrounding Santiago Colombatto, Jaime Seoane, and Lucas Ahijado have further complicated Paunović’s preparations. The suspension of Alberto Reina, who was sent off against Villarreal, adds another layer of adversity. However, the return of David Costas from suspension offers a timely boost to the backline, and veteran striker Salomón Rondón is expected to lead the line once again, bringing experience and physicality to Oviedo’s attack.
Historically, Real Oviedo have found little joy against Real Madrid. In 85 previous meetings, they have managed just 14 wins, suffering 55 defeats. Their most recent encounter—a 4–0 loss in the Copa del Rey in November 2022—was a stark reminder of the gulf in class. Yet, there is a glimmer of hope in the historical record. The last La Liga meeting between the two sides, back in June 2001, ended in a 1–1 draw, and three of their last four top-flight clashes have finished all square. While the odds are stacked against Oviedo, football has a way of defying logic, and the emotional energy of a home crowd witnessing their team’s return to La Liga could be a powerful intangible.
For Real Madrid, the trip to Oviedo is more than just a fixture—it’s an opportunity to fine-tune their system, integrate new signings, and build cohesion. Alonso’s summer business has been focused primarily on defense, with three new defenders arriving to bolster the backline. The midfield, however, remains an area of concern. Injuries to Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Ferland Mendy have limited Alonso’s options, and while a marquee midfield signing before the end of the transfer window seems unlikely, the club is already eyeing reinforcements for next summer. In the meantime, Alonso must rely on the depth and versatility of his current squad. Antonio Rüdiger returns from suspension and is expected to slot back into the defense alongside Eder Militão, who proved his fitness against Osasuna. Youngster Dean Huijsen, who impressed in the opener, may retain his place depending on Alonso’s tactical setup.
In attack, Brahim Díaz could once again be preferred over Rodrygo, having shown flashes of creativity and dynamism in the previous match. Mbappé, of course, will be the focal point, and his ability to stretch defenses, create space, and finish clinically makes him a constant threat. The Frenchman’s integration into the team is still a work in progress, but his presence alone alters the way opponents approach games. With Vinícius Júnior operating on the opposite flank, Real Madrid possess one of the most potent wide duos in world football. The challenge for Alonso is to ensure that the midfield can support and link effectively with the front line, maintaining balance and control while allowing the attackers to flourish.
The tactical battle between Paunović and Alonso will be intriguing. Oviedo are likely to adopt a compact, disciplined shape, seeking to frustrate Madrid and hit on the counter. Rondón’s hold-up play and aerial prowess could be key in relieving pressure and initiating transitions, while the midfield will need to be industrious and alert to deny Madrid time and space. For Alonso, the emphasis will be on patience, precision, and exploiting the flanks. Madrid’s full-backs will be tasked with providing width and overlapping runs, while the midfield must recycle possession efficiently and create overloads in key areas.
Beyond the tactical nuances, this match is a study in contrasts. Real Madrid, with their galaxy of stars, global fanbase, and relentless pursuit of silverware, represent the pinnacle of club football. Real Oviedo, with their modest resources, passionate local support, and underdog spirit, embody the romanticism of the sport. Their meeting is a reminder of football’s capacity to unite disparate worlds, to create moments of magic and meaning that transcend statistics and standings.
As the teams take to the pitch under the lights of the Estadio Carlos Tartiere, the atmosphere will be electric. Oviedo’s fans, many of whom have waited a generation to see their team back in La Liga, will roar with pride and hope. Madrid’s traveling support, accustomed to the grandeur of the Bernabéu, will bring their own brand of fervor. The players, caught in the crucible of competition, will seek to rise to the occasion, to write their own chapters in the unfolding story of the season.
For Real Madrid, victory is expected, but the manner of the performance will be scrutinized. Alonso’s project is still in its early stages, and each match is an opportunity to build identity, confidence, and momentum. For Real Oviedo, the result may be secondary to the experience, the lessons learned, and the statement made. Competing with dignity, defending with resolve, and attacking with ambition—these are the benchmarks that will define their campaign.
In the grand tapestry of La Liga, matches like this are the threads that add texture and depth. They remind us that football is not just about titles and trophies, but about journeys, dreams, and the enduring power of belief. As the final whistle blows on Sunday night, one team will celebrate, one will reflect, and both will continue their pursuit of purpose in a league that never ceases to captivate.
