Hércules CF faces a crucial test as the schedule tightens. The blue and white squad returns to action after a tough stretch, with seven matches still on the table. This Sunday, a limited-time clash awaits at 6 p.m. against Terrassa, a rival that shares the same league position and has been solid defensively. A defeat would severely dent any remaining playoff hopes, even if the mathematical paths remain open on paper. At the moment, Lolo Escobar’s men sit in fifth place, with Formentera and several teams breathing down their necks and a handful of games left to play. Manresa and Terrassa are just ahead, making every remaining match feel like a final in its own right.
Despite the tight standings, the mood in the camp is far from optimistic. Hércules has struggled to generate scoring chances, tallying just two goals in the last seven fixtures and failing to pose genuine danger on the field. The drought has become a talking point, underscoring how fragile the attack has become when pressure mounts.
Hércules CF | goal drought fever
Pedro Rojas
Trying to make sense of a season that once promised more, the club had to gamble on youth and new options after last summer’s changes. Jean Paul started with the reserves and did not feature for the first team until matchday 14. Neither Harper nor Ander Vitoria met expectations. The Scottish striker endured injuries and inconsistent form, while Basque players were not favored by Ángel Rodríguez or Lolo, who openly discussed concerns about weight and fitness. The coach ultimately opted to give Salah a chance from the youth ranks instead of promoting Ander to Manresa, a decision that shaped the course of the campaign.
Mario Gómez, optimistic
Hércules defender Mario Gómez stated this week that beating Terrassa would boost playoff chances and shift the team’s outlook for the rest of the campaign. He framed the upcoming seven matches as pivotal for everyone, noting that a win could change the trajectory and lift the mood around the squad. Gómez, who joined from Unionistas during the winter window, had previously played in Segunda RFEF III, acknowledging the challenge of opponents who may view Hércules as a target. Still, he emphasized that he would not be overwhelmed by the situation and believes the team can rise to the occasion.
“Seven matches remain, and each one matters for us and for every rival, because nothing is decided yet,” he said at a press conference. If the eighth-placed Hércules, just one point behind the last playoff spot, can secure a win, the goal becomes within reach.
Gómez, who arrived mid-season from Unionistas, reflected on the campaign’s momentum and the competitive dynamics that have footnoted Hércules’ progress. He seemed aware of the tougher path ahead but remained hopeful that the home schedule could provide a necessary boost, asserting that the team would strive to maximize every opportunity and feel more confident when playing on familiar turf.
Cesar Moreno must wait
Meanwhile, César Moreno will miss this Sunday’s match and will have to wait another week to return. The midfielder trained with teammates recently, but the coach opted against risking his participation in the most decisive games of the season.
Punt documentary
Apunt, the Valencia regional channel, is set to premiere a documentary this Thursday that chronicles Hércules’ history as the club marks its centennial. Titled Hèrcules, 100 anys d’un mite, the film will be shown at Odeón cinemas in Sant Vicente del Raspeig and is part of the club’s commemorative events. The production reflects the club’s century-long journey through archival footage, interviews with players, coaches, and historians, and involvement from fans and insiders alike. The premiere is scheduled for April 2 at 20:00, with participation from former Hércules figures who contributed to the project.
The documentary was produced in collaboration with the regional channel and Oceanica Films, under the auspices of the 100th Anniversary Foundation. It offers a broad portrait of the blue-and-white lineage, underscoring the enduring connection between the club and its supporters as Hércules enters a new chapter in its storied history.