Elche’s centennial challenge: progress, potential, and a path to survival

Elche’s journey toward a centennial triumph

Elche CF faces a historic moment as it fights to remain in the top flight. The club seeks reinforcements and fresh energy to maximize the value of its current squad, drawing on experience and proven capability in the highest tier.

Elche’s greatest achievement in 100 years?

In recent matches, Omar Mascarell and Pedro Bigas have shown progress, signaling that the level of performance is rising. The Balearic defender appears to have moved past lingering injuries and is contributing more consistently at the back.

More players must rise to the occasion. Ezequiel Ponce seems to be finding chemistry in attack, while Lucas Boyé is trending in a more productive direction, even if he has not yet returned to his peak form from earlier campaigns.

Ezequiel Ponce during the match against Guadalajara

Control of the midfield and defensive structure remains a focal point.

CONTROL OF THE MIDFIELD AND DEFENSIVE ORDER

During the Festa d’Elx cup clash with Leeds United and Tuesday’s Copa del Rey tie with Guadalajara, Mascarell began to resemble the pivotal midfielder who helped Elche secure safety last season. In these outings, he occupied substantial space in the center and showed a willingness to press higher and more aggressively than in months past. The traditional defensive brace, once used primarily to disrupt play, gave way to a more dynamic approach.

Bigas continues to add organizational value at center-back. His positioning, pace, and distribution have stood out, and he even assisted the first goal against Guadalajara. A ball from the midfield found Pere Milla, who finished with a precise header.

The result and history of Guadalajara-Elche: Elche meets the record (0-3)

The ongoing improvement of Mascarell and Bigas could lift the team’s competitive level, strengthening the chance of salvation as the season progresses.

LEAD

Lucas Boyé, Ponce, and Roger keep advancing

As league play resumes and January fixtures against direct rivals loom, Elche’s forwards have shown modest progress. Pere Milla remains the most consistent performer so far, while the trio of Boyé, Ponce, and Roger Martí are gradually finding cohesion in attack.

Lucas Boyé in Guadalajara

In recent friendlies and cup games, Boyé, Ponce, and Roger Martí have begun to show signs of potential. Boyé, though not yet at his best, demonstrated increased activity and decision-making, even when facing tougher competition. He assisted the second goal for Ponce and positioned himself effectively in attacking transitions.

Roger Martí has shown improvement, yet additional development is needed. The coach has expressed confidence in reintegrating him with Boyé to form a dangerous attacking pair when league action resumes. Martí’s best performances come when he stays close to goal and takes advantage of scoring opportunities near the area.

Roger Martí needs to improve his performance

GAME STRUCTURE

Gumbau and Raúl Guti increasingly influence play with the ball

Gumbau and Raúl Guti are the other two players who must elevate their contributions. Elche’s ball possession and control in midfield have improved as Mascarell develops, benefiting both the Catalan and Zaragoza links in the build-up play.

Gumbau has been entrusted with transition play, directional changes, and delivering balls to the flanks. Guadalajara exposed some cracks, but he remains tasked with creating chances and driving lines forward.

Guti has faced heavy scrutiny from supporters, yet his recent appearances show tangible activity. When he operates in the middle, the greens gain presence and momentum. A late-shot attempt from off-bounds set up a final 0-3 impression, underscoring gradual progress.

OPTIMISM

Small steps bring hope

The road back to La Liga is not instant. The moment of truth arrives when the league returns, but the measured improvements from the core group and the new and returning players create optimistic signs. If Elche maintains this trajectory, the possibility of a late-season resurgence remains alive.

Elche’s strategy centers on strengthening the heart of the team while leveraging the leadership qualities of Mascarell and Bigas. The squad is building a balance between steady defense and more dynamic attacking options, aiming to convert controlled play into results on match days.

Lucas Boyé, Ezequiel Ponce, and Roger Martí have started to show the promise they carried into the season. As the calendar turns and fixture congestion eases, their collaboration could unlock more goals and better overall performance. The staff remains committed to extracting maximum impact from every available player, matching experience with the energy of youth to press toward safety in the league standings.