AtticGo Elche Faces a Tough Test Against Greek OFN Ionas
AtticGo Elche has advanced to the Round of 16 in the EHF European Cup after clearing the first two qualifying rounds, defeating Byala of Bulgaria and OFN Ionas from Greece. As the competition grows, the level of difficulty increases and the battles on the court become more demanding.
In a match-up expected to test their resilience, AtticGo Elche encounters the Greek side OFN Ionas, a stern challenger that pushes every team to its limits. The encounter promises a display of hard defense and rapid transitions, with both teams looking to carve out a path toward the later stages of the tournament.
The Green-Franjire Warriors will then face Madeira Andebol from Portugal. The Portuguese side represents a complex opponent, and, as has been the case with previous rounds, the ties may require playing the return leg away from home. Scheduling concerns are common in this phase, and both clubs will navigate travel and venue considerations as they pursue advancement.
The opening leg is scheduled to take place on the Madeira court during the weekend of 13-14 January 2024, with the return leg in Elche planned for the weekend of 20-21 January. The format emphasizes two-leg ties and the need to execute game plans across different arenas, testing adaptability and game management.
Following the draw, the head coach assessed the Madeira club as a challenging opponent and a team that has shown strong individual quality and international experience. The assessment highlighted Madeira as a difficult rival, one capable of competing closely with strong sides as demonstrated in recent fixtures. The coach noted that the squad’s depth and the presence of several international players make Madeira a formidable test for Elche.
The coach also explained the difficulty of hosting both legs in Elche. Given the round-trip format and the Portugal-based location of the opposition, negotiating venue arrangements proved tight. The positive aspect, however, is the opportunity to stage the rematch at home, backed by strong support from the fans.
Rising expectations surround the team as the season progresses. The coaching staff believes that overcoming the draw is within reach, provided the squad performs at its best. The focus is on maintaining high intensity, executing efficient defense, and capitalizing on fast-break opportunities when they arise. The team’s preparation emphasizes cohesion, tactical discipline, and resilience under pressure, attributes that could prove decisive in navigating the demanding rounds ahead.
There is still ample time before the next matchups, and the club remains focused on readiness as national and European schedules resume. The target for the season remains clear: to reach the later stages of the EHF European Cup and contend for the title, with a particular aim to push deep into the final rounds. The overall plan emphasizes steady development, strategic preparation, and maintaining a high level of performance across all competitions.