Elche prepares for a pivotal Sunday clash against Cartagena at Martínez Valero
Lunch-time kickoff at 14.00 promises a highly charged atmosphere as Elche CF hosts Cartagena in what fans hope will be a defining weekend. The match carries significant incentive for both sides, with Elche aiming to build on recent momentum and Cartagena seeking a vital result to bolster their campaign.
Elche, nicknamed the Franjiverdes, faces a Cartagena side that could shape both teams’ trajectories for the season. After a cautious start to the campaign, victories and draws have pushed Elche toward recovery and, potentially, a spot in promotion play-offs if results align with other fixtures. The weekend tilt could mark a turning point as Elche eyes a return to confidence and continued pressure on their rivals.
The Martínez Valero stadium has transformed into a fortress lately, with Elche registering a perfect run at home across the last four fixtures. This home form, coupled with a string of positive results, has elevated expectations among supporters and staff alike. The crowd, energized by the current run, senses a special moment where the team could extend its unbeaten streak and further solidify its climb in the standings.
Supporters are buzzing as the possibility grows of seeing Elche back in a higher division next season. The energy around the club reflects a community eager for success and ready to back the squad through the critical stages of the campaign.
Cartagena travels to Elche with memories of players who once wore the Elche shirt, including Gonzalo Verdú, a figure held in high esteem by the home crowd. Verdú, who has captained the team in recent seasons, remains a beloved member of the fanbase and a symbol of the club’s history. His return to the pitch against his former club adds a personal storyline to the match and heightens the sense of rivalry on the day.
Verdú on the emotional stakes of the fixture
Gonzalo Verdú spoke about the potential promotion for Elche and the responsibility of facing Cartagena. He suggested that promotion would bring tremendous happiness to the club and its supporters, but that victory on Sunday would be the focus for his current teammates. Verdú emphasized the competitive nature of the contest and the importance of winning for both clubs as they pursue their respective ambitions [Citation: Club press materials].
Beyond Verdú, other familiar names linked to Elche will be part of the narrative. Jony Álamo, Iván Calero, and goalkeeper Marc Martínez have each contributed to the team in various roles and may feature again as the match unfolds. The presence of former Elche players among Cartagena’s squad adds depth to the storyline and suggests a contest rich in history and personal matchups [Citation: Team rosters and match previews].
A festive atmosphere and fan engagement
Game day is expected to be lively, with Cartagena supporters set to travel in numbers to add to the stadium atmosphere. A large turnout from the visitors’ fans will accompany the home crowd, who themselves have shown strong attendance in recent fixtures. The anticipated blend of home pride and away support promises a vibrant scene inside Martínez Valero.
Elche’s home supporters have already delivered remarkable vocal support in recent matches, setting a benchmark for attendance and enthusiasm this season. The gathering on match day underscores the community’s commitment to backing the team through important challenges and opportunities alike [Citation: Attendance reports].
The tactical balance for the day will hinge on how Elche handles Cartagena’s approaches, with the home side aiming to maintain control and pressuring their opponents when opportunities arise. While optimism runs high, there is an awareness that resilience and focus will be essential to prevent any surprise results and keep the positive momentum going for Beccacece’s squad as the campaign progresses.
Borja Garcés, Sergio León, John and Fidel in training
The medical outlook also shapes the lineup, with Raul Guti progressing through training and John Chetauya reintegrating into group drills after a stint away from full competition. The team plans to opt for stability in the lineup, with few changes expected from those who played the last league match, though a few squad members remain under consideration as cover or rotation options.
Elche is likely to field a familiar starting XI, maintaining balance and continuity. The squad’s depth remains a factor, providing Beccacece with choices to adapt to the flow of the match and potential tactical shifts. The players are geared up for a demanding test as they seek to consolidate progress and keep the campaign on an upward path.
Elche players during training at Díez Iborra
POSSIBLE ALIGNMENTS:
-Elche: San Román; Josan, Mario Gaspar, Bigas, Clerc; Tete Morente, Febas, Nico Castro; Nico Fernández, Óscar Plano and Mourad.
CARTAGENA: Marc Martínez; Iván Calero, Alcalá, Gonzalo Verdú, Fontán; Musto, Tomás Alarcón, Hevel, Jansson; Juan Carlos Real and Juanjo Narváez.
JUDGE: Milla Alvéndiz
HOUR: 14:00
STADIUM: Martínez Valero
[CITATION: Team announcements and official lineup notes]