He will be the central figure in the regional derby of the Valencian Community as Elche CF hosts Valencia CF this Sunday at 2:00 PM, live on DAZN, inside the Martinez Valero stadium.
Heading into its centennial year, Elche has endured a disappointing campaign, slipping into relegation trouble with just 13 points and victories in only two league matches all season.
Valencia, a club steeped in history, sits just behind the drop zone as the march toward the Martinez Valero clash heads into crucial days. They face an absolute need to win to stand a chance of clinging to top-flight status, hoping to secure a safe position with three points. Anything less would spell deep disappointment for the Turia capital.
Relations between the clubs remain cordial, and the bond between the two fanbases is notable. Elche does not want to relinquish this match. Beccacece, speaking on Friday, emphasized a professional approach despite the season’s rough spell, aiming to end the drought in the remaining fixtures.
Additionally, the Argentine coach has not yet added points to the tally. Since his arrival, Elche has endured three straight defeats against Barcelona, Osasuna, and Girona, underscoring the uphill battle ahead.
Valencia has leaned on memories from its past to spark a reaction. Ruben Damián, a former Elche coach, began with promise but the spark has faded with time. Only one point from the previous twelve is achievable in Valencia’s last four outings, and the team’s form has declined sharply.
The visiting side has not earned away points since drawing with Real Sociedad at Anoeta on 6 October. They also have not won at Mestalla against Osasuna in Pamplona since October. A loss at Elche would darken Valencia’s prospects further.
Beccacece continues to test options with the future in view, while maintaining a lineup resilient to discipline concerns. Injuries have affected the team, with Palacios, Carmona, and Helibelton sidelined. Some squad changes are anticipated to bolster options on the right and left flanks, with Raul Guti expected to compete for a starting spot and Lautaro Blanco possibly entering from the left. The rest of the lineup is expected to mirror the latest selections, and Edgar Badía returns to the starting XI after missing Montilivi for personal reasons.
Beccacece: “Win or lose is relative as long as Elche competes and has an opinion on the game”
JA Galvanized
Valencia’s squad has endured several injuries and absences. Nico González is sidelined while Thierry Correia, Justin Kluivert, Marco André, and Samu Castillejo are unavailable. Illaix Moriba and Hugo Duro are suspended. Uruguayan Cavani remains the main attacking reference for the team.
Possible lineups:
Elche: Lirola, Mascarell, Bigas, Clerc; Morente, John, Guti, Fidel, Pere Milla, Lucas Boyé.
Valencia: Mamardashvili; Foulquier, Diakhaby, Cenk, Gayà; Lino, Almeida, Guillamón, Yunus, Lato; Cavani.
Referee: Cuadra Fernández (Madrid).
Kick-off: 2:00 PM.
Stadium: Martinez Valero.
There will be a festive atmosphere at the Martinez Valero stadium, matching the significance of this derby. Despite the grim moments for both teams, fans have remained the season’s highlight, supporting their clubs with unwavering passion. Elche supporters look to savor the remaining First Division games, while Valencia fans recognize the derby’s importance and will come together, strengthened by the proximity of the two cities.
Roughly 2,000 Valencia supporters are expected to travel, providing color and noise at the north end of the Elche arena. Valencia players even organized their travel to help their fans make the trip.
Everything is ready for Valencia’s arrival at Elche
JA Galvanized
Between these two teams, more than 20,000 spectators are anticipated in the stands. While it may not be a moonshot moment, the derby carries the weight and history of the clubs. If Elche loses, the season’s end could bring resignation. If Valencia wins, the drama could be even more heightened, altering the course of both campaigns.