Elche's Desperate Scrap for Points as High-Flying Osasuna Visit Martínez Valero
Elche look to halt their alarming slide against in-form Osasuna, who are eyeing European spots after picking up 10 points from their last 12.
A proper six-pointer looms at the Martínez Valero as struggling Elche host an Osasuna side suddenly dreaming of European nights.
Elche’s Nightmare Run
The home side are in a right state, no two ways about it. Without a win in 2026, they’ve managed a measly two points from their last 18 available, with three straight defeats leaving them dangerously close to the drop zone. Their once comfortable cushion has evaporated faster than a pint in the Spanish sun.
Eder Sarabia’s defensive headaches continue with several key absentees in his backline, which explains why they’ve been leaking goals like a dodgy tap recently. There’s even whispers of a potential goalkeeper change to stop the rot. The gaffer will be boosted by having top scorer Rafa Mir back in the squad, while Diangana remains a doubt.
Despite their woeful form, Elche can take some comfort from their home record at the Martínez Valero, where they’ve been one of the stronger hosts in LaLiga this season – though they haven’t won in their last three attempts there.
Osasuna Flying High
The visitors couldn’t be in more contrasting form. Alessio Lisci’s men are enjoying their best spell of the season, unbeaten in four matches and with maximum points from their last two away days. They’ve bagged 10 points from the last 12 available, and another three points would have them properly knocking on Europe’s door.
The rojillos receive further good news with Torró and Moncayola returning to the fold, though they’ll have to make do without Boyomo, who picked up an ankle injury against Celta.
Battle of the Marksmen
This clash features two of LaLiga’s deadliest finishers going head-to-head:
- André Silva - The Portuguese forward’s five goals have been crucial for Elche, especially with Rafa Mir’s absence
- Ante Budimir - Osasuna’s Croatian hitman has been in sensational nick with 11 goals to his name this term
Both strikers will be looking to add to their tallies – Silva to help Elche escape the relegation dog fight, and Budimir to continue Osasuna’s European charge.
With Elche desperate for points and Osasuna’s tails up, this has all the makings of a proper barnstormer at the Martínez Valero.