Elche CF faced a challenging moment shaped by the opponent’s potential, early mistakes in previous matches, and perhaps warnings from above. The coach, Sebastián Beccacece, decided to set aside experiments and focus on solidifying the defense after a run of underwhelming results in their back line. The recent tactical shifts paid off in a match played last Saturday, producing tangible improvements. This turnaround showed the team could regroup and compete at a higher level.
The Argentinian coach moved away from the mixed three-man back line in favor of a more compact setup. He also shifted from a congested defense to a more stable arrangement, settling on two fixed wide players like Josan and Carreira on the right. The tactic kept a steady line while allowing Prieto to stay in his lane, avoiding a reliance on a third center-back on the left. The plan balanced attack and defense and created a clearer path for the wing players by maintaining structure throughout the game.
The approach also embraced the natural strength of players like Tete Morente and Nico Fernández. Morente remained on the natural left leg, while Fernández began on the right and moved into central areas with freedom. This flexibility widened the attacking options and improved service to teammates. A 1-4-1-4-1 formation emerged, strengthening defense and enabling quicker transitions to press and protect the flanks.
Additionally, the tactical plan reintroduced Mario Gaspar into midfield after a two-match suspension, giving the side an extra layer of presence in the middle of the pitch. In earlier phases, Gaspar had shifted toward central areas to create numeric superiority. However, as Josan advanced in attack and Nico Fernández moved inward, the rear line, especially on the right, became more exposed. Opponents had learned to exploit that flank, causing damage and testing the defense.
With the adjustments, Elche’s defensive shape tightened and the balance between lines improved, reducing the number of dangerous overthrows for the visitors. The team did not struggle to defend, and San Román had limited work during his debut, helping Elche keep a clean sheet despite not clinching a win. Even a draw can carry a sense of achievement when the defense holds up under pressure.
Another moment of reflection followed in the press room as the manager and staff assessed the defensive record. The four goals conceded in a recent loss prompted Beccacece to rethink and commit to a brave, possession-based, aggressive style of play. The aim remains to evolve into a team that is steady at the back while remaining audacious in attack. The priority is to present a solid and reliable defensive unit while building a more dangerous, proactive offensive identity.
Practice sessions during the week focused on tactical discipline and readiness, while the coaching staff emphasized maintaining their bold football philosophy. This balance is critical as the Second Division of Spanish football demands both resilience and technical quality. The objective is clear: keep the team defensively secure while continuing to apply pressure and create chances on the break.
Tomorrow, in another decisive test, Elche will visit El Molinón-Enrique Castro Quini to face Sporting de Gijón. The squad must show continuity in the defensive work demonstrated against Levante and sustain the concentration that ensures solidity at the back. The center of defense remains a point of focus, with the team adjusting personnel as needed to cover gaps, especially when injuries and fatigue test the depth of the squad. Raul Guti has not fully adapted to the role, and Cristian Salvador has faced muscular issues since joining, adding to the challenge of maintaining a stable back line.
With the squad short on options for central defense, coach Beccacece entrusted Áleix Febas with responsibilities in that area. Febas has provided a strong presence in midfield, but his attributes lean more toward offense. While he contributes creatively from the midfield, there are moments when retreating to defend requires different movements and spacing, and his distance from the goal can affect the timing of the final passes or overload the wings. The evolving lineup continues to test the balance between defensive duties and forward momentum.
As the team navigates these adjustments, the overall objective remains straightforward: build a resilient, cohesive unit that can press and defend with intent, while executing a clean, controlled buildup in attack. The coaching staff remains focused on refining the structure, ensuring players understood their roles, and maintaining a steady trajectory toward better results on matchday.
In summary, the latest tactical revisions aim to strengthen Elche’s defense, improve balance in midfield, and sharpen attacking movements. The upcoming clash will reveal whether these changes translate into a consistent performance that can deliver results and uplift the squad’s confidence.
Axis updates and ongoing evaluations continue as the team works to stabilize the defense and optimize the frontline movements, all while adapting to the demands of the second tier of Spanish football. The path forward is clear: disciplined defense, purposeful pressing, and calculated offense that can translate into points on the table.
With attention to injuries and squad depth, Beccacece will likely rotate players carefully, balancing experience and youth to sustain momentum. The road ahead is demanding, but the team remains committed to evolving into a unit that can compete with any opponent in the league. The focus is simple: defend well, attack with intent, and keep improving with every training session and match.