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Cancelo Sparks Barça's Backline as They Welcome Oviedo in a Key La Liga Showdown

25 January 2026

Cancelo Sparks Barça's Backline as They Welcome Oviedo in a Key La Liga Showdown
Cancelo features in Barça's lineup as they push to reclaim the La Liga leadership.

Lineup and Context

Barcelona's coach Hans Flick unveiled the XI for the clash with Real Oviedo in La Liga Round 23. The new arrival Joao Cancelo started for Barça for the first time since his loan return from Al Hilal until the season's end.

The starting XI was: Juan Garcia - Eric Garcia - Pau Kobarci - Gerard Martin - Joao Cancelo - Dani Olmo - Frenkie de Jong - Marc Casado - Lamín Yamal - Lewandowski - Rafinha.

On the opposite side, Oviedo lined up as follows: Aaron Esquindel - Lucas Ahijado - Kostas - David Carmo - Xavi Lopez - Haithm Hassan - Seibo - Columbato - Elias Shira - Reina - Fedi Finias.

Barça sit second in La Liga with 49 points, while Real Oviedo occupy the bottom spot with 13.

Getty Images

Punchline: If Cancelo's crosses were emails, Oviedo would have all spam blockers on high alert. Punchline 2: Barça's defense is so tight that even the offside line files a complaint.

Author

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who started for Barcelona?

Joao Cancelo started, marking his first Barça start since returning on loan.

What are Barça's and Oviedo's standings?

Barça are second in La Liga with 49 points; Oviedo sit bottom with 13.

Which other notable Barça players featured?

Dani Olmo, Frenkie de Jong, Lamin Yamal, Lewandowski and Rafinha were among the starters.