A Real battle: how fans’ euros might offer fairytale salvation for Oviedo

Faced with impending bankruptcy and extinction, debt-ridden Real Oviedo in Spain has discovered a precious asset that may yet save it from doom: the loyalty of its fans, reports Joseph Wilson

As one of many clubs struggling to survive in Spain’s deepening economic crisis, Real Oviedo needs to raise nearly €2 million by Sunday to stave off legal writs that would force its dissolution, a sad end to 86 years of sporting history.

But thanks to a novel fundraising effort — selling shares in the club at cut-rate prices — and a rampant social-media campaign, the third-tier club is halfway toward reaching its target.