Key Highlights
- The Real Sporting de Gijón will change their starting lineup to face a weakened Valencia CF.
- Borja Jiménez and the squad have been revitalized, with 3 consecutive victories in La Liga.
- Valencia CF is facing fatigue after playing multiple matches in December due to a recent bout of flu among players.
- The match is part of the 16th round of the Copa del Rey and will be held at El Molinón on December 16, 2025, at 9:00 PM.
Match Preview: Real Sporting de Gijón vs Valencia CF in the Copa del Rey
The Real Sporting de Gijón is set to host Valencia CF on December 16, 2025, at El Molinón for a crucial match in the 16th round of the Copa del Rey. This is a high-stakes encounter with no return leg, meaning the winner advances directly into the next round.
Sporting de Gijón: A Revitalized Squad
Under the guidance of coach Borja Jiménez, Real Sporting de Gijón has regained its form with three consecutive victories in La Liga. The team is expected to make some tactical changes for this Copa del Rey fixture. Coach Jiménez hinted at a mix of familiar faces and potential substitutions during the press conference.
Forwards Jordy Caicedo and Amadou are likely to start, but their positions may shift depending on the matchday strategy.
The team is hopeful that key players will return from injury or illness, including midfielders Oscar Cortés and Dani Queipo. The club is also close to signing new talent in goalkeeper Brian Oliván, which could bolster their defensive line if he makes the squad.
Valencia CF: Battling Fatigue
Valencia CF comes into this match after a tough month that saw them play six games in 18 days. This fatigue is compounded by recent flu cases among players, leading to the activation of their internal protocol for minimizing contact and wearing masks in common areas. Despite these challenges, Valencia is focused on avoiding another Copa del Rey upset following their narrow victory over Cartagena.
The team will be without some key players due to injury or suspension, including forwards Hugo Duro and Dimitrievski, as well as midfielder Baptiste Santamaría.
However, there is an optimism that defender Luis Rioja will return from his bout with the flu.
The Valencian side aims to balance their Copa del Rey duties with their pressing La Liga campaign. They are currently in a precarious position in the league and need every point they can get, including this crucial one against Gijón.
Match Details and Broadcast
The match will be broadcast live on Movistar Plus LaLiga 4. For fans traveling to El Molinón, Autocar Alsa offers special discounted tickets for Sporting de Gijón season ticket holders. The bus service departs from various locations in Avilés, Mieres, and Oviedo, providing convenience for supporters eager to witness this important match.
The match is expected to be an intense one, with both teams aware of the stakes involved.
A win could significantly boost the morale and standing of either team in their respective competitions. The fans will be watching closely as Gijón seeks to build on its recent success while Valencia aims to maintain its focus on avoiding a repeat of last year’s embarrassing loss.
Stay tuned for live updates from this crucial match, which could have far-reaching implications for both teams’ futures in their respective leagues and cups.
