Elche CF kick off pre-season with win over Kaizer Chiefs
Elche CF started their pre-season with a 2-1 win against Kaizer Chiefs. Martín Anselmi’s first match in charge featured a five-man defense, overlapping full-backs, and high pressing that kept the South African side at bay for much of the opening half.
How the match unfolded
The Ilicitanos dominated early. Ali Houary opened the scoring in the 22nd minute after recovering the ball on the left flank and firing a shot into the far post. Before halftime, Gonzalo Villar delivered a corner that Víctor Chust headed across for Umaru to tap in in the 45+3rd minute.
The mood darkened quickly. At 40 minutes, Matías Dituro collided with an opponent in a dangerous area and had to be replaced by Iturbe with shoulder discomfort. Kaizer Chiefs pulled one back in the 59th minute after John Chetauya’s error allowed Asanele Velebayi to reduce the deficit. Tension rose until a brawl forced the referee to intervene.
What the friendly meant for Elche CF
Anselmi made ten changes at halftime to test his squad. Germán Valera had the clearest chance to extend the lead in the 50th minute, but the visiting goalkeeper made the save. In the 84th minute, Nordin stepped up for a penalty only for the keeper to guess correctly, though the score remained unchanged.
The Argentine coach praised the academy players’ character and the team’s early defensive solidity. Yet Dituro’s injury and the late scuffle left concerns. Anselmi left with a useful win but fitness issues to address.
Line-ups and key details
Elche CF fielded Dituro; Herráiz, Delgado, Diaby, Chust, Miralles; Villar, Houary; Cepeda, Umaru, and Diang. Kaizer Chiefs countered with Glody Lilepo and Flávio Silva up front. The match was played on neutral ground with no spectators.
Goals: 22' Houary, 45+3' Umaru (Elche CF); 59' Velebayi (Kaizer Chiefs). Missed penalty: 84' Nordin (saved).
