After back-to-back injuries, Elche CF faced a tense moment as the season pressed on. The squad turned to Mourad, a youth-team striker with limited professional experience, to shoulder the attacking load during a pivotal stretch. The reserve group had to rise to the occasion, stepping up when the first team needed leadership and goals. Despite early doubts, the young players began to show growth and improvement in recent fixtures, turning anxious spectators into confident supporters as the team pushed through adversity.
History and photo gallery of Elche-Zaragoza: Elche takes the lead
JA Galvan
The Spanish-Moroccan forward Garcés had to withdraw from the squad a few days earlier after an injury to Garcés left a gap up front. In the early stages of the Tenerife match, Mourad contributed to the team’s victory, signaling his potential to influence important games. Four days later, Beccacece took a calculated risk by not resting key players for a league clash in Albacete, while prioritizing Europa League and Copa del Rey commitments. Mourad opened the scoring, paving the path toward the next round. Carlos returned to the starting XI at Belmonte and enjoyed a surge of form, proving himself as a reliable attacking option. He linked play well with his back to goal, won aerial duels, and helped teammates get involved. His performance against Real Zaragoza last weekend earned particular praise, as he balanced offensive duties with defensive effort, working until late in the match before being repositioned in the closing moments.
Europa-Elche Cup Chronicle: Mourad and Rodri pay another round
JA Galvan
Following the Maños clash, the Elche coach highlighted the collective commitment that has driven the squad through tough periods. He praised the growth of the young Spanish-Moroccan player who earned his place on the field and contributed to team progress. The coach emphasized that Mourad started with modest involvement but has evolved into a key contributor. His single goal belies the broader impact he makes by defending, pressing, and assisting the team’s overall attacking rhythm. This selflessness and willingness to help the collective are seen as essential qualities that resonate with the fanbase, reinforcing a sense of identity within the club. The coach noted that these traits are as important as any individual statistic, stressing the need for ongoing generosity that fans can rally behind. (Source: JA Galvan)
With Borja Garcés regaining fitness and featuring in the late minutes of the Real Zaragoza game, the tactical question for Beccacece remains. Will Mourad retain his place for the crucial upcoming match against RCD Espanyol in Barcelona next Saturday at 21:00, or will Garcés reclaim a starting role? The Spanish-Moroccan forward has earned a growing level of continuity within the squad, contributing to Elche’s attacking options as the season progresses. The question now is how the manager will balance experience and youth in a schedule that demands both resilience and results.