It is time for the uncommon—and for the homegrown players alike. This was Elche CF coach Sebastián Beccacece speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of tomorrow’s fixture. The venue is Nou Sardenya Stadium with kickoff at 18:00. Elche will meet Barcelona’s CE Europa in the opening round of the Copa del Rey. One game, one chance. Even though not all regular starters were on the field, Elche did not forget the cup in their preparations.
More points, less forward
Elche remains focused on the challenge ahead and the opportunity to compete with intensity across all competitions. The team emphasizes that every match holds the same weight and deserves full commitment. The message to players and fans is clear: approach each cup affair with maximum effort, knowing that a single result can define continued involvement. The squad, especially the younger players and those who have seen limited league action, brings a high level of enthusiasm into this cup tie.
The coach stated that the squad has prepared thoroughly for the clash and hopes to demonstrate it on the field, even in what is expected to be a tough contest.
Will there be fewer headlines because this match is considered less important than the league?
“Every match is treated with the same care. Yet, injuries have affected the squad with Borja Garcés, Sergio León, Fidel, Pamies, and John missing time. The plan is to rely on the depth of the academy and those who have been integrated into the first team. Some players accumulate minutes and the coaching staff must choose wisely. Most of the travel party will be ready and available, and the final rotation will be decided closer to kickoff. Everyone who traveled has prepared and trained accordingly.”
Which game are you waiting for?
“This will demand intense focus against an opponent that plays with purpose, loves possession, and breaks quickly. Every fixture carries its own meaning and is an opportunity for players who see less game time to prove themselves. When the moment arises, players must show the daily effort they invest in training. The squad features 23 to 24 players, including several youngsters who rotate into action. The team operates with a wide pool of options, and most players will have minutes in this cup. The emphasis is on the collective effort and the ability to overcome obstacles for personal growth. The aim is to seize the moment, compete fiercely, and win”.
Is artificial turf a problem?
“The playing surface affects every aspect of play. There is no perfect field, but it is known that synthetic surfaces exist in several regions, including Chile, Ecuador, and Brazil. The team must adapt quickly to the conditions, whether the venue is in Elda or Huesca or elsewhere. The league continues to improve pitches and ball performance, which benefits both players and spectators. The squad trains to adjust, acknowledging that the ball can feel heavier on artificial turf. The current target is Europe, and the organization focuses on doing what is best for the team in each situation.”
Will Edgar Badia play?
Badia is progressing well, gaining experience in an extended role while maintaining emotional maturity that reassures the coaching staff. The expectation is for him to deliver the level of performance seen at the start of the season in the cup this Wednesday.
Is the two-group training approach used today due to the opponent or standard planning?
Fundamentally, the training is about balancing load and equalizing minutes. The goal is to keep players physically ready should they be required to contribute. The coaching staff has employed a high-intensity regime for those with fewer minutes following the previous match, maintaining a fairly uniform group. Murad took part in a recent exhibition, sprinting with the same pace and distance as his teammates. The approach demands discipline and honesty from every player, as individual effort serves the common good. The process is demanding, but it aims to prepare the squad for whatever lies ahead.
How does Borja Garcés feel?
Garces notes that recovery has not yet been ideal, but optimism remains. Confidence in the medical staff and the diagnosis supports the plan to push forward with available resources. The team must continue to move ahead, making the most of the players who are ready and minimizing regrets. The moment calls for resilience, unity, and a strengthened group mindset.