Provincial women’s handball action returns this Saturday in two important settings aimed at advancing season goals. Atticgo Balonmano Elche competes in the last 16 of the European Cup, while Elda Prestigio hosts the bottom team in Madeira, Portugal. Securing wins in the league remains crucial if the goal is to stay in the top tier.
For Atticgo Balonmano Elche, the European clash is the standout challenge this season. They will meet Madeira Andebol SAD in the first leg this Saturday afternoon at six. The Elche squad carries a strong sense of urgency, with the European Cup excitement reaching a peak this year.
The return leg is scheduled for the 20th at the Esperanza Lag pavilion in Elche. The team, led by Joaquín Rocamora, aims to maintain momentum by leaving the tie open for a possible finish in the following Saturday match. The challenge is substantial. The opponents have lost just one match in the Iberian Super Cup against Costa del Sol Malaga this season and are in excellent form.
rival dynamite
Oriolano’s coach notes that the opponent possesses power and scoring prowess, with three players competing at the international level. “It will be very difficult to defend and support them,” he says. “They have established a attacking pattern that makes them very effective and this is a demanding European Cup foe.”
Atticgo Elche coach determined to “take advantage of our good moments” against Madeira
VL Deltell
Rocamora states, “we face two strong teams at a favorable moment and must avoid unnecessary mistakes. The fixture is a 120-minute contest, so it is important to manage the score and the timing.” He adds that the goal is not to win the first match at all costs, but to avoid losing it. The coach outlines four keys: “control the defense,” as the opponents’ ability to score is high; “improve shooting efficiency,” and minimize errors; and “capitalize on good periods when they occur.”
Joaquín Rocamora, Atticgo Elche coach, shares these reflections as the clash approaches.
Transcendental afternoon for Eldas
Elda Prestigio faces Lobas Global Atac Oviedo on the 14th Iberdrola Guerreras League matchday this Saturday at 18.00, at the Ciudad de Elda Florentino Ibáñez pavilion. The game holds major significance for José Miguel Cantos, who highlights the importance of the return to competition. “It’s a key moment in a big clash. The next game always matters, but this one carries extra weight with several points at stake. We are all tied on points and played at home, while they beat us there. We want to compete in both legs.”
The opponent sits near the bottom of the table, two points ahead of Eldenses. Yet last year they managed to steal a win at Elda. Cantos describes the match as highly challenging and notes that there are limited opportunities to exit relegation play-off territory; this game becomes pivotal in that sense.
The coach envisions a balanced, competitive encounter that players will approach with focus. “Both squads share the same ambitions, and the match will be a fair contest with comparable goal totals and defense. The margin is small, but the quality is evident.” He adds that the visiting side features a renowned group that knows each other well and has added capable players.
Injury updates
The Elda infirmary remains active. Camila and Andrea are still out, Bea and Lucía Prades are not in San Sebastián and are dealing with injuries, but there is cautious optimism about their return. The coach emphasizes that anxiety or overexertion can affect the team, yet he remains confident in preparation. Training has been steady, and the team is ready to approach the match with composure. The belief is that pressure will not derail them.
Cantos closes with this assurance: “The fans will respond as they always do. A strong turnout is expected, and a positive atmosphere will be created.”