Elche CF vs FC Barcelona: Preview, Predictions, and Lineups
El FC Barcelona is set to challenge Elche CF this Saturday at the Estadio Martínez Valero in Alicante. Currently leading LaLiga with 52 points, Barcelona arrives energized after a significant Champions League victory against Copenhagen. However, with Real Madrid closely trailing by just one point, they must remain vigilant.
In contrast, Elche CF, managed by Eder Sarabia, is navigating a less turbulent season, sitting in 11th place. Despite this, their recent performance raises concerns, having earned only 2 points from their last 12 possible. With only a three-point buffer from the relegation zone, Elche needs a strong home performance to regain stability.
Match Details: Elche CF vs FC Barcelona
- Date: Saturday, January 31
- Location: Estadio Martínez Valero, Elche, Spain
- Time: 15:00 ET, 14:00 CDT, 21:00 CET
- Referee: Muñiz Ruiz
Head-to-Head Record
The recent history between these two teams heavily favors Barcelona:
- Elche CF Wins: 0
- Draws: 0
- FC Barcelona Wins: 5
Barcelona boasts an impressive streak of 11 consecutive victories against Elche across all competitions, with their last loss to Elche occurring in 1974.
Recent Performance
| Team | Last 5 Matches |
|---|---|
| Elche CF |
|
| FC Barcelona |
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How to Watch
Fans can catch the Elche CF vs FC Barcelona match through various broadcasters:
- United States: ESPN+, ESPN Deportes, Fubo
- Mexico: Sky Sports, Sky+
- Spain: Movistar LaLiga TV, Movistar+
Team News
Elche CF faces several challenges ahead of the match. Héctor Fort is sidelined due to a shoulder injury, while key midfielder Aleix Febas is suspended. Álvaro Núñez is also uncertain due to muscle complaints. Eder Sarabia is likely to utilize André Silva, who has returned from injury, alongside Álvaro Rodríguez in a counter-attacking strategy.
FC Barcelona, managed by Hansi Flick, welcome back important players like Frenkie de Jong. He returns from suspension, while Ferran Torres is fit to start after playing against Oviedo. Injuries still plague Gavi, Pedri, and Andreas Christensen, but Barcelona will depend on their strong away form, securing 22 points from 11 games.
Predictions
Given their current form and recent performances, FC Barcelona is favored to win against Elche CF. With a potent attack and Elche’s defensive concerns, the match outcome is expected to favor the visiting team.
Prediction: Elche CF 0 – 3 FC Barcelona
