In an exhilarating clash at the Estadio Ciutat de València, Levante secured a narrow 3-2 victory over Elche during La Liga’s Matchday 21. The match was fiercely contested, with both teams showcasing remarkable effort and skill. Elche took the lead early through Alvaro Rodriguez in the 10th minute, but Levante quickly equalized, thanks to a goal from Pablo Martínez just before the halftime mark.
The second half was action-packed, featuring goals from Levante’s Adrián de la Fuente (22’) and Elche’s Adam Boayar (47’), bringing the score to 2-2. Just when it seemed the teams would settle for a draw, Levante’s Alan Matturro scored a decisive header in the 50th minute, sealing the win for the hosts.
Adrián de la Fuente was named the man of the match, influential at both ends of the pitch, contributing with a goal and critical defensive efforts, clearing two dangerous situations from his area. Meanwhile, Pablo Martínez also shone with a goal and an impressive 27 successful passes, reinforcing his role in the midfield.
Levante’s coach, Luís Castro, opted for a 4-5-1 formation, fielding Mathew Ryan in goal, supported by defenders Jeremy Toljan, Adrián de la Fuente, Alan Matturro, and Manu Sánchez. The midfield comprised Ugo Raghouber, Pablo Martínez, Iker Losada, Carlos Álvarez, and Iván Romero, with Etta Eyong leading the attack.
On the other hand, Elche, managed by Eder Sarabia, lined up in a 5-4-1 formation, featuring Iñaki Peña in goal and a backline of Yago Alonso, Adriá Pedrosa, David Affengruber, Léo Pétrot, and Germán Valera. Their midfield consisted of Grady Diangana, Marc Aguado, Aleix Febas, and Martim Neto, supporting forward Alvaro Rodriguez.
The match was officiated by referee José Munuera Montero. Looking ahead, Levante will face Villarreal in their next fixture, while Elche will host Barcelona.
Currently, Levante is positioned 19th with 17 points, while Elche sits 8th with 24 points in the standings.
Substitutions for Levante
45’ 2T – Iker Losada was replaced by Paco Cortés
73’ 2T – Etta Eyong came off for Carlos Espí and Carlos Álvarez was substituted for Jon Olasagasti
Yellow Cards for Levante:
37’ 1T Carlos Álvarez (Unsporting conduct)
39’ 2T Iván Romero (Reiterated fouls)
Substitutions for Elche
61’ 2T – Martim Neto was substituted by Josán Fernández
69’ 2T – Yago Alonso off for Adam Boayar and Alvaro Rodriguez replaced by André Silva
70’ 2T – Grady Diangana exited for Rodrigo Mendoza
84’ 2T – Marc Aguado was replaced by Alejandro Sánchez
Yellow Cards for Elche:
10’ 2T Léo Pétrot (Unsporting conduct)
21’ 2T Aleix Febas (Unsporting conduct)
26’ 2T André Silva (Unsporting conduct)