Elche CF face one of the toughest challenges of the season as they host Real Madrid this Tuesday at the Martínez Valero. The Franjiverdes, sitting 19th in La Liga with just two points from five games, are searching for their first league win against a giant that arrives in second place.
Elche approach the duel after a 1-1 draw away to Athletic Club, where Facundo Buonanotte scored from the penalty spot. That point ended a run of three consecutive defeats, though the season's balance remains concerning: zero wins, two draws, and three losses. Their defence has conceded 13 goals, the worst record in the competition alongside the bottom side. The only player ruled out is Adam Boayar, according to the club's medical report, which gave no estimated return date.
The side from the capital, managed by Carlo Ancelotti, arrives in fine form after thrashing Rayo Vallecano 4-1. With an attack led by Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior, and a midfield where Jude Bellingham shines, Madrid have scored 14 goals in their last five matches. In the previous meeting between the two, last March 14th, the Madridistas won convincingly 4-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The key for Elche will be defensive solidity and capitalising on their chances. Manager Sebastián Beccacece will likely trust the same eleven that earned a point in Bilbao, with Dituro in goal and a midfield block of Villar and Morcillo tasked with stifling the opposition's talent. The connection between Tete Morente and Fer Niño will be vital to create danger. The full squad is available on our team page.
The match will be played this Tuesday, September 15th, at 21:30 local time at the Martínez Valero Stadium. A win against Madrid would provide a huge boost for morale and the league table, where Elche trail leaders Barcelona by 13 points. The full season schedule can be found on our fixtures page.
