Valencia and Elche have clashed in Spain’s top division many times, with their rivalry standing out as one of the most frequent community derbies. Across the first division era, Valencia has faced Elche in more than two dozen head to head showdowns, a testament to the longevity of their encounters in the country’s premier league. The derby between Valencia and Villarreal has also produced a long memory for fans, while the intense series against Hércules added another layer to the history of matches in the highest tier. The long arc of these meetings reflects how regional pride and tactical battles have shaped the league landscape in Valencia and its neighboring provinces, contributing to a rich tradition of competitive football in the community.
Frangiverde celebrated a memorable victory at the Mestalla stadium in a season that remains etched in club folklore. It was a historical win from the 1965 1966 campaign when the final score finished 1 to 2. The match took place late in December, with Elche battling Valencia in a display of determined football. The battlefield featured a lineup including Pazos, Canós, Verdú, Lico, Juan Casco, Llompart, Araujo, Juan Lezcano, Marcial, Vavá, and Iborra for the home side, while Otto Bumbel steered Elche through the challenge. Elche converted their opportunities through Casco and Vavá to secure the victory, leaving a lasting imprint on the historical ledger between the two clubs.
Elche later achieved another triumph over Valencia at Martínez Valero, a milestone that carried significance beyond the result. In that contest, Almirón was on the bench as the Frangiverdes were guided to a pivotal win that became part of the club’s coaching history as his final victory before the managerial change that followed. The 2020 2021 season saw this late dramatic triumph, with a 2 1 result that underscored the home strength of Elche in their own stadium. Fidel and Josan supplied the goals in a performance that echoed Crevillente style and intensity, further enriching the narrative of this fixture.
Throughout their histories in the top division, Elche and Valencia have also shared a total of six draws and sixteen Valencia victories in this regional rivalry. When counting all matches in the league era, the two teams have faced each other forty six times, with Valencia holding a clear edge in wins. The balance of power tilts toward the Valencian club, boasting twenty four wins to Elche’s thirteen, a stat that illustrates how the home strength and long term form have contributed to the derby’s overall standing. In many of these meetings, the tactical boards have played a starring role as coaches and players adapted to the different terrains, weather conditions, and rival styles, creating memorable moments for supporters from both camps.
This upcoming weekend, the Mestalla crowd will witness another chapter of the ongoing rivalry, with kickoff scheduled for afternoon hours. The match will be more than a routine league fixture; it is a continuation of a historical thread that has woven together the destinies of Valencia and Elche over generations of players, coaches, and fans who have followed the drama with passion and loyalty.