Villarreal and Elche are set to face each other this Sunday at La Cerámica in a crucial regional match. Both teams seek victory to escape their troubling situations. Villarreal aims to secure its place in the Champions League, while Elche fights to avoid relegation.
Different Goals, Same Need for Victory
Villarreal has been solid at home, essential for maintaining their Champions League ambitions. Conversely, Elche has not won a single match this year and is now just one point above the relegation zone. Their troublesome streak began during Villarreal’s previous visit to Elche.
Coaching Connections
This match is significant for the coaches of both teams. Marcelino García Toral and Eder Sarabia reunite at La Cerámica. They previously worked together when Marcelino led the senior team, and Sarabia coached the youth squad.
Player Updates
For Villarreal, Gerard Moreno returns after several weeks on the sidelines. Unfortunately, they have also lost key players, including Logan Costa, Willy Kambwala, Juan Foyth, and Ayoze Pérez, who has been a regular starter.
On the Elche side, the stakes are high. The team has not won in nine consecutive league matches in 2026, raising immediate concerns. Their top scorer, Rafa Mir, has recently faced serious allegations, which adds pressure on the squad.
Injuries and Suspensions
Elche will be without Hector Fort, who is recovering from a shoulder injury, and Yago de Santiago, who is serving a suspension. Pedro Bigas and John Chetauya remain doubtful due to irregular training sessions this week.
Projected Lineups
Below are the anticipated starting lineups for both teams:
| Villarreal | Elche |
|---|---|
| Luiz Júnior | Dituro |
| Mouriño | Chust |
| Pau Navarro | Affengruber |
| Renato Veiga | Pétrot |
| Cardona | Buba Sangaré or Morente |
| Comesaña | Aguado |
| Pape Gueye | Febas |
| Buchanan | Cepeda or Diangana |
| Moleiro | Germán Valera |
| Nicolas Pepe | André da Silva |
| Mikautadze | Rafa Mir |
The referee for the match has yet to be assigned. The kickoff is scheduled for 14:00 local time (13:00 GMT) at La Cerámica. Both teams will aim for a much-needed victory to uplift their morale and shift their seasons in the right direction.
