Elche CF technician Sebastian Beccacece spoke to the press ahead of the eastern meeting this weekend. The match will take place at the Martínez Valero stadium, with a 2:00 p.m. kickoff, against Cartagena, a team placed at the bottom of the table. The Argentinian coach noted that his side has built good momentum in recent days, yet remains only one point away from the play-off zone and three points from direct promotion. He stressed that he has not earned the status of a candidate or favorite to rise to the First Division. At the same time, he warned that facing Cartagena will be very difficult and that no game can be won without playing, especially since the Franjiverdes tend to thrive at home and against the last team in the standings.
Schedule of matchday 19 of LaLiga Hypermotion and where to watch Elche-Cartagena on TV?
VL Deltell
How is the Cartagena match evaluated?
He remains a worthy competitor, and so does Elche. The team is preparing for the clash with strong anticipation. Cartagena has recently earned points in challenging venues such as Tenerife and Oviedo, finished second at home against Sporting de Gijón, and secured Copa del Rey qualification after eliminating Alcorcón. The best antidote is to enjoy the game. Despite the anticipated difficulties, if Elche handles the match well, enjoys it, plays with intensity, and benefits from home support, progress is achievable. A united effort from the squad and the supporters is essential to deliver results.
And Gonzalo Verdú returns…
Verdú is a player I deeply respect. When Elche began its centenary events at the Grand Theater, he spoke highly as captain, reflecting the strong bond between the club and its people. Beyond the results he achieved, Verdú is a person of integrity and loyalty, and the ties established with him and his family go beyond decisions about his continuity. He deserves lasting recognition for wearing the Elche jersey with pride. Players who receive such appreciation earn it through their conduct and performance.
Gonzalo Verdú: “It would be a great happiness if Elche were promoted, but I will go to win with Cartagena on Sunday”
JA Galvan
Elche has good momentum and is considered a candidate for promotion, while Cartagena sits at the bottom. At first glance, the encounter might appear favorable, but the reality is different. It will be a very tough match. There is no room for complacency. Verdú emphasizes that he does not see himself or his team as favorites or candidates for promotion. There are stronger teams in the league, and Elche must earn their place through steady improvement. The captain clarifies that this is a collective and personal process. Sporting de Gijón shared leadership with Cartagena on the final day, a scenario that could mirror Elche’s future. The team will take it one match at a time, with three decisive games remaining before the mid-season break.
How are Raúl Guti, Álex Martín, and John, who could not play in the cup due to injury?
Raúl Guti has been training with the group for two days. John is training normally, while Álex Martín is unavailable due to reduced rhythm. The rest are fully available, which is encouraging. In cup qualifiers against Europa and Linares, only 11 and five substitutions were permitted, so everyone must be prepared. Players such as Diego González, Carreira, Salinas, and Cristian Salvador have shown readiness when called upon.
What is the assessment of Murad’s role? Although he does not score often, he contributes significantly to the team…
He netted an important goal and delivered several assists in the cup tie against Europa. While goals may not be his primary contribution, his involvement helps shape game flow. He leads pressing from the front and has grown substantially. The coach noted that when Murad arrived, he faced hurdles related to conditioning and weight, but he has shown a clear improvement. He now consistently plays with high intensity, and goals should follow. His mindset has shifted, weight has been reduced, and his impact on the team has increased markedly.