Atticgo Balonmano Elche faces a landmark European night this Saturday at 19:00. The coach, Joaquín Rocamora, calls it the best moment yet and hopes to overturn the 27-26 first-leg setback against Madeira in the EHF European Cup round of 16. The Esperanza Lag venue will host what Rocamora envisions as a celebratory event for Elche handball. The team’s extended family will be in attendance to show support, underscoring how pivotal this match is. If the stands come alive with backing, more celebrations like this could follow.
Atticgo Elche in Funchal spotlight
David Marine
Competitor potential
The return leg is expected to demand a strong performance, as the opponent carries significant threat. Atticgo must win by at least two goals to have a chance. Rocamora notes that Madeira showed resilience in the first clash, and their improvement should be expected, especially with Araujo out of the lineup. He views his players as being in peak form for the week, having trained intensely and with purpose.
Before heading to Madeira, Rocamora reflected on the result: a one-goal deficit was not ideal, especially knowing a win would secure a home game. He believes the key period ran roughly from the 20th minute to the 60th, when momentum shifted. The match featured two teams with high ceilings, with Boix delivering more effective shooting than Nicole. The Elche squad pushed ahead by three or four goals on several occasions, only to see Madeira rally and cling to a late advantage.
Open qualifier
In Rocamora’s view, the final score fairly reflected the balance of play and left everything open for the home leg. He expresses optimism about a big home crowd and a potential party if the team plays to its standard. If the squad sticks to their training style, supporters should not be disappointed, and the players will not be blamed for any outcome. The focus remains on preparation and readiness for the weekend clash.
Attendance remains strong with no reported injuries or illnesses among the squad. The coach stresses caution and a positive mindset, hoping for a healthy squad and a full turnout, while keeping the door open for selection based on performance rather than factors beyond control. Precautions are in place after a brief illness during the first match, and the emphasis is on ensuring the 16-person lineup is chosen for merit and readiness.
Keys to the match
Rocamora emphasizes a clear game plan, noting that Madeira’s approach required study beyond the usual. He highlights the importance of setting the right expectations and recognizing the opponent’s versatility. Madeira had a full week to prepare for the trip, while Elche had only two days to gear up, making the challenge even stiffer. The balance now feels even, Rocamora says.
Beyond preparation, the ability to adapt quickly will decide the result. The coach believes the team that embraces innovation more effectively will gain the edge.
Maximizing moments
For the Oriolano coach, capitalizing on good spells and limiting the impact of bad spells will be crucial. He insists that clinging to a large deficit in a short burst must be avoided. Maintaining control of momentum in critical stretches could prove decisive.
Other factors include shot efficiency and goalkeeper performance. The contest could hinge on who handles extra time better; the team that can sustain performance in a draw scenario will head into the decisive moments with resolve. The aim is a strong finish, focusing on process over result, particularly in the final quarter.
Harrow
Rocamora believes the crowd will respond with energy. He expects the stands to be packed, with a supportive atmosphere that could tip the balance. The team’s supporters are encouraged to create a charged environment that helps the players maintain focus on the task at hand, just as has happened in dramatic wins against Bera Bera or Malaga. The audience’s involvement will be pivotal to the team’s performance.
On the players, Rocamora notes a focused group eager to compete. The break proved refreshing, and the squad has rebuilt its approach to competitions. The team is ready to deliver a strong performance on Saturday and to demonstrate the work that has gone into preparation.
“Law”
This is a high-stakes match where performance and determination drive the outcome. The coach expresses optimism about sharing this experience with the home crowd and believes the European stage is a special opportunity for Elche Handball Club, a club with more than six decades of history. The aim is a satisfying evening for the home fans, with a strong performance that reflects the club’s long-standing heritage.