Girona fight back to spoil Raul Gonzalez’s Real Oviedo debut

Girona recovered from a goal down to beat Real Oviedo 2-1 at the Carlos Tartiere, scoring twice in three minutes to secure a much-needed victory and ruin Raul Gonzalez’s first match as Oviedo manager.

Real Oviedo had taken the lead early in the second half through a well-worked move, but defensive errors allowed Abel and Bichor to turn the game around for the Catalan side.

According to AS, Girona began by trying to welcome Raul’s team with sustained possession. Their midfield pairing of Izan and Beltran controlled the rhythm under Kike Alvarez, forcing Real Oviedo to retreat and rely on occasional attempts to win the ball back.

Raul was highly active on the touchline, constantly directing his players and attempting to adjust their approach. However, Girona appeared the more comfortable side during the opening period, spending much of the first half in the hosts’ half.

Despite Girona’s greater control, the chances were relatively evenly shared before the interval. Dominguez sent a header just wide of the post, while Jimenez was presented with a clear opportunity but failed to convert a shot that appeared easier to score.

Real Oviedo looked to threaten from set-pieces, while Girona sought to exploit the pace of Carles Perez and Unai. The visitors’ best chance came from a dead-ball situation when Carles Perez’s left-footed strike hit the crossbar following a challenge inside the penalty area.

Estanis and Schaira also attempted to test Girona before the break, but neither effort seriously troubled goalkeeper Gazzaniga.

The opening stages of the second half favoured Real Oviedo. A fine attacking move began with Guti, continued through Jimenez and was improved by Schaira before Reina completed it with an excellent header from a late run into the area.

The 1-0 lead gave Real Oviedo greater composure and they nearly extended it soon afterwards. Gazzaniga denied Esfan after a promising attack that had been started by Estanis.

Instead of building on their advantage, Real Oviedo conceded twice in quick succession. On 60 minutes, their defenders failed to intervene as Abel found the net in front of goalkeeper Aaron.

Just three minutes later, Bichor capitalised on another mistake and a rebound to put Girona ahead. The hosts had gone from potentially leading 2-0 to trailing 2-1, leaving Raul’s side facing a difficult task.

Raul responded with attacking substitutions and demanded a strong reaction from his players. Real Oviedo pushed forward with determination, although their threat was driven more by energy and fighting spirit than by clear attacking solutions.

Yakubu and Morales both tried to test Gazzaniga, but the Girona goalkeeper held firm. His saves helped secure victory at the Carlos Tartiere and ensured Raul’s first match in charge of Real Oviedo ended in defeat.