Coach Beccacece could field the same starting XI as in the Huesca clash for tomorrow’s showdown against Tenerife. The key uncertainty sits in midfield, where a decision will shape the balance of the team and its tempo on the pitch.
Fidel Chaves returns after staying away from the capital to protect a stubborn calf issue from worsening. The captain trained with the squad all week and remains a proven starter whenever he is fully fit. His return adds leadership and a steady presence in attack as the squad pushes for control in midfield and chances up front.
Beccacece now faces a decision between recalling Huelva’s influence or sticking with the Argentine Nico Castro, who stepped in at Alcoraz and made a tangible impact. The choice will influence the way the side presses and distributes the play in the middle of the park.
Agreement between Beccacece and Fidel
Evidence points to a close alignment between the coach and his captain. Fidel and Beccacece share a clear understanding of the plan and the role each player must execute to keep the engine running smoothly. The approach remains pragmatic, prioritizing stamina and tactical discipline to sustain pressure across the 90 minutes.
Both players are actively managing the workload to ensure maximum contribution. Beccacece’s framework keeps the midfielders mobile and capable of switching roles as needed. Those who do not start will likely enter in the latter stages to heighten intensity and replenish energy levels, maintaining momentum when the match reaches its most demanding phases.
No other changes are anticipated for the core group. Alex Febas remains a fixture who brings consistency and technical reliability. Nico Fernandez Mercau has shown a high level of performance and even found the back of the net wearing the Elche kit. Josan appears to have earned a starting place in key moments, while Tete Morente contributes on the right flank when the team is without Sergio Leon, and Borja Garcés continues to compete for the starting striker role.
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The defensive line mirrors the reliability of the midfield. Mario Gaspar, Pedro Bigas and Carlos Clerc are integral to Beccacece’s plans, offering experience and stability across the back four. The coach values a solid backline that can support pressing triggers high up the pitch while maintaining compactness when the ball is turned over.
The only plausible alteration, aside from Fidel or Nico Castro’s involvement, could come at left back. Lautaro Blanco has started the last two games against Eldense and Huesca and is favored to retain the spot, provided any lingering muscle issues are resolved. He delivered a strong second-half display in Alcoraz after overcoming discomfort, reinforcing his grip on the position and providing balance on the left flank. The younger Salinas remains an option to rotate, especially when fresh legs are required to sustain the press and overlap on the wing.
The Argentinian full back is likely to be favored for his more direct offensive niche, offering greater width and options for breaking lines as compared to alternative choices. His involvement tends to increase the team’s width and provide a longer ball into the channels, which can unlock attacks in transitions and when pressing high up the field.
With these units in place, the squad looks prepared to impose its game plan while adapting to Tenerife’s set-up. The emphasis remains on controlled possession, rapid ball circulation, and smart running without the ball to create space in the final third. The coaching staff will be evaluating fitness levels, tactical swaps, and the balance between keeping possession and exploiting counterattacks as the match unfolds.