Ourense CF vs Osasuna B on January 18
On January 18, 2026, Ourense CF will face off against Osasuna B in a highly anticipated Primera RFEF encounter. The match will take place at the Estadio Municipal de O Couto, set to kick off at 18:30 CET. With both teams looking to secure vital points in the fight for higher league positions, this clash promises to be a thrilling tactical battle. The weather forecast suggests clear skies and moderate temperatures, which should not significantly impact the play on the pitch.
Ourense CF: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Ourense CF enters this fixture after a mixed run of form, with two wins, two losses, and one draw in their last five matches. Their primary tactical setup revolves around a 4-3-3 formation, where they utilize a high pressing game to disrupt their opponent’s build-up. In the final third, they rely on quick transitions, with the wingers cutting inside and the full-backs overlapping to provide width. The team's possession in the final third averages around 35%, which is relatively modest, but they are efficient in exploiting counter-attacks.
Key players for Ourense include their dynamic midfielder, who is the engine of the team, and their in-form winger, who has been involved in most of their goals recently. The central defense will be key in disrupting Osasuna B’s attack, particularly in aerial duels. However, injuries have plagued their defense, and a key central defender will be missing due to suspension, which could disrupt their defensive cohesion. This gap could allow Osasuna B to capitalize on their aerial and set-piece opportunities.
Osasuna B: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Osasuna B comes into this game on the back of a solid five-match stretch, having won three, drawn one, and lost one. Their primary tactical setup is a 4-4-2 formation, with a solid defensive base and a focus on possession-based play. They aim to control the midfield through short passing and build-up play, often looking to overload the flanks and create crossing opportunities into the box. Their average possession in the final third sits at around 42%, and they are highly efficient when it comes to set-piece situations.
Osasuna B's strength lies in their balanced approach, with a robust midfield and a strike partnership that is capable of scoring from various positions. Their star forward has been in excellent form, scoring in each of their last three matches. However, their left-back is currently sidelined due to injury, which may force them to adapt their usual attacking pattern. This injury could see them struggle to maintain width on the left side of the pitch, potentially narrowing their attacking options.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
In their previous encounters, Ourense CF and Osasuna B have typically played tight, tactical matches. The last three meetings have ended in two draws and one narrow win for Ourense CF. The most recent match was a 1-1 draw, where both teams showed equal levels of possession but lacked clinical finishing. Over the years, these sides have consistently been well-matched, and while Ourense has the home advantage, Osasuna B will be buoyed by their recent run of good form. The psychological edge could be crucial in this contest, as both teams understand the importance of this fixture in their promotion race.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the most crucial duels will be between Ourense’s right-winger and Osasuna B’s left-back, especially with Osasuna B’s usual starter missing. This could allow Ourense to exploit the weakened flank and deliver dangerous crosses into the box. Additionally, the central midfield battle will be pivotal, as both teams rely heavily on their midfielders to dictate the tempo. Ourense’s midfielder, who often acts as the playmaker, will have a key role in slowing down Osasuna B's ball progression and disrupting their possession-based game.
Another critical area will be set-pieces. Both teams have proven to be dangerous from corners and free kicks, with Osasuna B having a slight edge in aerial duels. Ourense will need to focus on preventing crosses from wide areas, while Osasuna B will need to ensure their defensive organization holds strong during set-piece situations.
Match Scenario and Prediction
The most likely match scenario will see Osasuna B controlling possession early on, with Ourense CF looking to disrupt their flow and capitalize on quick counters. The match could open up in the second half as both teams push for the three points. Given the current form of both teams, it seems likely that Osasuna B will dominate possession, but Ourense’s pressing game could lead to key turnovers in dangerous areas.
Prediction: Ourense CF 1-1 Osasuna B. Expect a tense, hard-fought draw, with both teams showing their strengths in attack but ultimately lacking the clinical edge to secure all three points. Key metrics: Possession in the final third (Osasuna B to have 55%, Ourense CF 45%), corners (both teams likely to have 4-5), and total goals (1-2). Both teams are well-matched, and despite the home advantage, Ourense’s defensive injuries may prove costly.
Final Thoughts
This match will test both teams’ ability to adapt to key absences and tactical shifts. While Ourense has the home advantage, Osasuna B’s superior possession play and depth could tilt the balance in their favor. The key question this game will answer is: Can Ourense overcome their defensive challenges and take full advantage of Osasuna B’s weaknesses on the left side? With everything at stake, this match promises to be an intense and unpredictable encounter.
