In a crucial La Liga match, Real Sociedad faces Elche CF at Reale Arena tonight. Kickoff is scheduled for 21:00, with José Luis Guzmán Mansilla officiating the match. This encounter is significant for both teams—Real Sociedad seeks to maintain pressure for European spots, while Elche aims to distance itself from the relegation zone.
Coaching Impact: Pellegrino Matarazzo
The arrival of head coach Pellegrino Matarazzo has revitalized Real Sociedad. Under his leadership, the team has played seven matches without a loss. This impressive record includes victories against top clubs such as Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid.
Key Match Statistics
- 7 matches unbeaten under Matarazzo.
- 3 league victories.
- 2 Copa del Rey eliminations.
However, the team faces challenges with injuries to crucial players. Wingers Take Kubo and Barrenetxea, both significant contributors, will not participate in the match. Additionally, other injured players include Ruperez, Zakharyan, and Marrero, while Brais is suspended.
Elche’s Struggles
Elche CF has struggled recently, recording six consecutive matches without a win. They currently sit in 13th place in the league with 24 points, just two points above the relegation zone. Their most recent defeats against Barcelona and Levante reflect their ongoing challenges.
Key Player Insights for Elche
Although struggling, Elche has some positive news. New signings Gonzalo Villar and Tete Morente are available for selection, and Aleix Febas returns from suspension, adding depth to the squad.
Player Highlights
Real Sociedad’s captain, Mikel Oyarzabal, has been instrumental this season, scoring eight goals and contributing three assists. Elche will look to their attacking duo, André Silva and Álvaro Rodríguez, who have combined for nine goals this season.
Expected Lineups
| Real Sociedad | Elche |
|---|---|
| Remiro | Iñaki Peña |
| Aramburu | Chust |
| Jon Martín | Affenfruber |
| Zubeldia | Petrot |
| Sergio Gómez | Pedrosa |
| Gorrotxategi | Febas |
| Carlos Soler | Aguado |
| Sucic | Martim Neto |
| Guedes | Valera |
| Oyarzabal | André Silva |
| Wesley | Álvaro Rodríguez |
As the match approaches, both teams are keen to secure three important points. Real Sociedad aims to solidify its European ambitions, while Elche fights to escape the relegation battle.
