In a tense match at the Martínez Valero Stadium, Elche emerged victorious against Valencia with a score of 1-0. The lone goal of the game came in the 72nd minute when Lucas Cepeda found the back of the net, giving his team a crucial three points.
The assist came from Aleix Febas, who delivered a pinpoint cross that Cepeda converted with precision.
Despite dominating possession and having a total of 20 attempts on goal, including 14 shots on target, Valencia struggled to find the finishing touch they needed. Their lack of efficiency in front of goal proved costly as Elche managed to capitalize on their one clear opportunity.
Lucas Cepeda was undoubtedly the star of the match, showcasing impressive skills with his goal. Meanwhile, Elche’s goalkeeper Matías Dituro also had a standout performance, making seven crucial saves and completing 24 successful passes.
The coach of Elche, Eder Sarabia, opted for a 4-4-2 formation, with Dituro in goal; a defensive line consisting of Aboubacar Sangaré, David Affengruber, Léo Pétrot, and Germán Valera; midfielders Teté Morente, Gonzalo Villar, Aleix Febas, and Martim Neto; and forwards Rafael Mir and André Silva.
On the opposing side, Valencia’s coach Carlos Corberán also implemented a 4-4-2 setup, featuring Stole Dimitrievski in goal; a defense comprising Thierry Correia, César Tárrega, Eray Cömert, and José Luis Gayà; with Luis Rioja, Guido Rodríguez, Filip Ugrinic, and Largie Ramazani in midfield; and strikers Lucas Beltrán and Umar Sadiq up front.
Referee Francisco Hernández Maeso oversaw the match, ensuring fair play throughout.
Looking ahead, Elche will host Atlético de Madrid in their next encounter, while Valencia will travel to Mallorca. With this result, Elche currently sits in 16th place in the league with 32 points, while Valencia remains in 14th place, having gained 35 points so far this season.
Substitutions for Elche
63’ 2T – André Silva was substituted by Alvaro Rodriguez and Aboubacar Sangaré exited for John Donald.
72’ 2T – Lucas Cepeda left the field for Gonzalo Villar and Martim Neto was replaced by Adriá Pedrosa.
81’ 2T – Germán Valera made way for Víctor Chust.
Yellow Cards for Elche:
13’ 2T – Aboubacar Sangaré (Fouling an opponent to prevent their advance).
Substitutions for Valencia
60’ 2T – Luis Rioja was substituted for Diego López, and Umar Sadiq was replaced by Hugo Duro.
74’ 2T – Eray Cömert left the pitch for Pepelu, and José Luis Gayà was substituted by Jesús Vázquez.
80’ 2T – Lucas Beltrán exited for Arnaut Danjuma.
Yellow Cards for Valencia:
17’ 2T – Guido Rodríguez (Unsportsmanlike conduct).