Atticgo Elche will play against Madeira on January 13 and 20
Atticgo Balonmano Elche prepared for a pivotal European Cup round of 16 clash, with the first leg scheduled for a Saturday at 18:00. The return leg will take place on January 20 at the Esperanza Lag pavilion. Madeira Andebol SAD, current leaders of the Portuguese league, will provide a stern test for the Spanish side in this two-game series that carries significant weight for both clubs.
The Elche coaching staff outlined a clear plan for approaching the matchup, emphasizing a compact defensive display and disciplined offensive execution. The emphasis is on controlling the game’s tempo, minimizing mistakes, and taking advantage of peak scoring moments when the opportunity arises. The team intends to translate its defensive pressure into fast transitions and high-quality finishes on the other end of the court.
Education
Following a strong performance in their most recent league contest, the squad focused on recovery and tactical preparation. Training sessions featured a blend of light activity and strategic review, with video analysis key to understanding Madeira’s strengths. The tactical emphasis centered on recognizing individual opponent threats and anticipating team patterns to reduce risk and exploit openings in both defense and attack.
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The coach highlighted Madeira’s potent attack, noting that several players operate at an international level and can change the game in an instant. While acknowledging the difficulty of keeping them in check, he stressed that a disciplined, team-oriented approach will be crucial for success in this European encounter. Madeira has built a strong domestic foundation, which translates into favorable conditions for European competition. Their recent schedule has included a short spell without matches, underscoring how sustained focus and preparation can influence performance on the continental stage.
Huge competitor potential
The coaching staff recognizes the immense challenge posed by Madeira and remains focused on their own capabilities. The team faces two formidable opponents in a moment of form, and the message is to avoid unnecessary errors while embracing the reality that this is a two-leg tie with the possibility of a change in momentum across the full 120 minutes. The aim is to manage the clock and the score wisely, understanding that wins are not guaranteed in the first leg but losses can be fatal in the early stages.
Atticgo Elche enters the European clash with renewed motivation. The team views the European Cup as a source of excitement and a platform to demonstrate progress beyond domestic play. A focus on consistent results in the league has elevated confidence, and the staff expects a competitive atmosphere, though they do not anticipate a large traveling fan presence. The club’s management notes Madeira’s financial strength and professional structure as a benchmark for European competition. While the domestic league form remains steady, the anticipation for the European challenge remains high, with a sense of healthy pressure and ambition driving the squad forward.
The journey to Funchal will be demanding. The travel plan includes layovers through Madrid and Lisbon before reaching the Madeira Islands. The squad comprises 18 players plus staff, reflecting a well-rounded team capable of sustaining performance across a demanding two-leg fixture. This long journey adds another layer of resolve, requiring focus and collective effort from every member of the squad and their support network.