Elche vs Andorra: Late Garcés strike sparks hope and debate

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Against the first round opponent Andorra, the controversial Martinez Valero stadium moment became a turning point in a long-awaited recovery for Elche CF. A late goal from Borja Garcés in the 89th minute secured a crucial victory and kept Sebastián Beccacece on the bench. Just a week earlier, he had suggested leaving if the team could not beat the Principality side.

Chronicle of Elche-Andorra: Borja Garcés does justice and saves Beccacece

Elche faces a shift in momentum as they prepare for another challenge. This Sunday at 16:15, the match will take place at the National Stadium in Andorra la Vella, with the team seeking a fresh boost. A week of speculation about departures and new signings has intensified the pressure on Elche to ignite a run that could push them toward promotion play-off spots or, alternatively, leave them standing at the gates of the postseason.

Victory will not come easy. Eder Sarabia’s side relies on a strong performance and a win after three straight defeats that have left them in a relegation position. The clash promises to be a test of character for both teams as the season progresses.

Eder Sarabia: “Elche are a brave team that will demand a great defensive level from us”

Despite a goalless draw with Valladolid the day before, Elche earned four points from the first two games of the second round. Their defense looked sturdier, and they managed three goals while keeping a clean sheet. The upcoming encounter with Andorra will require maintaining that defensive discipline while seeking goals to secure the three points.

Beccacece is waiting for reinforcements to complete the squad rebuild. Meanwhile, they face Andorra, whose squad is somewhat depleted. Oscar Plano continues his recovery from a serious ankle injury. Young midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza, who started the last three matches, could not travel due to a severe blow against Valladolid. Fidel Chaves remains sidelined by muscle issues. Diego González had personal matters that prevented his Friday practice. It is expected that another young player, for example Adam Boyer who has featured regularly with the first team, could join the squad ahead of the next match, perhaps alongside top scorer in the making from the region.

Elche quarry continues to receive great news

Despite plans to remain active in the transfer market, Sergio León will not be part of the Elche lineup. He terminated his contract last Thursday and signed with Eibar, where he debuted on Friday and scored the decisive goal against Mirandés. This change marks a new chapter for the club as they adapt to life after the former striker.

Beccacece: “I know it will be unpopular to do without Sergio León, but this is the most honest decision”

Meanwhile, Lautaro Blanco awaits a move to Boca Juniors and has been dealing with muscle issues. There are reports of Raul Gutia and other players on the edge of exits, while Tete Morente has reported some muscle discomfort ahead of the weekend. The manager emphasized that the current focus is on building a cohesive unit and preparing for the stress of a demanding fixture list. The atmosphere around the squad remains tense but focused on achieving positive results.

Tete Morente leaves Martinez Valero this Saturday

This afternoon’s match will be closed to the public, with Manu Nieto arriving on loan from Andorra and preparing to face his former club. The Córdoba-born forward is determined to break the scoring record for Elche at their home stadium and make a significant statement in this regional showdown.

Manu Nieto faces a key test in Andorra this Sunday

No doubt about the lineup has changed. Beccacece will likely keep the formation that has served well in recent matches. If Tete Morente is available to start, the only change may come from Rodrigo Mendoza’s injury. Nico Castro is expected to serve as a substitute, while Manu Nieto and Mourad could form the front line with Nico Fernández Mercau shifted into midfield to add balance.

The rest of the starting XI appears settled. Dituro continues in goal, with the defense protected by a back four of Carreira, Mario Gaspar, Bigas, and Clerc. In midfield, John Chetauya and Aleix Febas provide the core, while Mourad is trusted to offer dynamic coverage even if he has yet to hit the scoring sheet. The coach’s approach remains pragmatic, prioritizing organization and transition play.

POSSIBLE ALIGNMENTS:

ANDORRA: Nico Ratti, Petxa, Alex Pastor, Adrià Vilanova, Diego Pampín; Jandro, Iván Gil, Sergio Molina; Iker Benito, Julen Lobete, Karrikaburu.

Elche: Dituro, Carreira, Mario Gaspar, Bigas, Clerc; Tete Morente or Josan, John Chetauya, Febas, Nico Fernández, Nico Castro or Manu Nieto, Mourad.

JUDGE: Oliver de la Fuente Ramos

HOUR: 16:15

STADIUM: Andorra la Vella City Stadium

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