Elche’s Final Friendly Test Before the Resumption
On a Saturday morning, Elche took another defeat in what was scheduled as the last friendly before La Liga returns after the World Cup break. Pablo Machín’s squad fell 2-3 to Genk, the reigning leaders of their league, in a match that tested the team’s readiness for the challenges ahead.
In the early minutes, Jean Ponce and Pere Milla were on target for the Franjiverdes. The Argentine striker fired his team in front in the 10th minute, only for Genk to level four minutes later. Even after several substitutions by Machín during the first half, the scoreline stayed put through the whistle, leaving Elche searching for rhythm and balance, especially in the buildup phase. Source: Elche CF
Elche Needs a Target Forward
As the match progressed, Milla struck again, delivering a well-placed finish off a setup by Lucas Boyé to push Elche ahead once more. Yet, the hosts soon endured a familiar setback: a renewed wave of Genk goals, including a penalty, which swung the match back in favor of the Belgian side. The team’s ongoing issue with maintaining control after goals became evident as gaps appeared in both midfield pressing and defensive structure. Source: Elche CF
Festa d’Elx Prepares for a Move to Leeds
Among the select positives, Fidel managed to get on the field for about half an hour, addressing a key shortcoming noted by the French and Greens in earlier observations. In the first half, local players Pamies and right-back Pol Lirola also contributed meaningful minutes, signaling readiness for upcoming fixtures. Source: Elche CF
With the latest result adding to a recent 1-2 defeat to Leeds United at Festa d’Elx and a prior 1-0 win against West Bromwich Albion in the new coach’s first game, the squad continues preparations for the next challenge. The calendar points toward a Copa del Rey second-round clash against Guadalajara on Tuesday, December 20, at 19:00 at the Pedro Escartín stadium. La Liga’s return is anticipated nine days later with a tough trip to Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano on December 29. Source: Elche CF
Images circulating on social media captured the team’s moments from the day, including the official post from Elche FC that summarized the lineup and substitutions. Source: Elche CF
LINEUPS AND SUBSTITUTIONS SUMMARY: The visitors relied on Werner in goal, while the defense featured Verdú and other changes across the match. Substitutions came at various intervals, restoring fresh legs and attempting to stabilize the center of the park. The intricate details of who played when highlight the ongoing evaluation process as the team strives to lock in a cohesive unit before competitive play resumes. Source: Elche CF