Elche Triumphs at Martínez Valero (2-0)

Elche, under the guidance of Eder Sarabia, is making serious strides and has gained significant momentum. The team plays well, surpassing opponents with the tactical style of the Basque coach, and boasts players like Nico Fernández Mercau who are eager to advance to a higher division. The victory against a direct rival like Eibar (2-0) was a demonstration of maturity at a devoted Martínez Valero, which now firmly believes in the possibility of promotion. The fans are convinced that promotion is achievable.

Elche temporarily ascended to the top of the standings after clearly defeating Eibar (2-0) at Martínez Valero on Friday, with Eibar only managing to resist for a few minutes in the first half.

The team from Elche, improving as the match progressed, extended their winning streak at home thanks to goals from Sory Kaba and Nico Castro, while Eibar, during their best spell in the game, was thwarted by Dituro.

Eder Sarabia's squad imposed a high tempo in the opening minutes, suffocating Eibar, who struggled to leave their half. Elche's dominance led to several dangerous attacks led by Yago de Santiago, but without a finishing touch.

The Eibar team managed to shake off the local dominance by controlling the ball, allowing them to reach Elche's area in a couple of actions that forced Dituro to clear shots from Cubero and Jorge Pascual.

Sergio Álvarez and Nolaskoain gained influence in the match, and Eibar made Elche feel uncomfortable and imprecise, although through individual efforts, they continued to pose a threat, such as a shot from Nico Fernández that narrowly missed the post.

Elche, less elaborate in possession than in previous matches, continued to threaten the goal through Sory Kaba, whose partnership with Agustín Álvarez caused defensive issues for Eibar.

The home team was rewarded for their perseverance in the final action of the first half. Nico Fernández outpaced his defender on the wing, entered the area, and assisted Sory Kaba, who made no mistake and beat Magunagotia with a powerful shot.

Elche came out determined to settle the match at the start of the second half. Sarabia's team, in their best combinative form, completely dominated Eibar, although they failed to score a second goal.

Etxeberria tried to invigorate his team by introducing Guruzeta, Alkain, and Matheus, but Carrillo's expulsion for a second yellow card halted any attempt at a comeback. Elche sensed the opportunity and two minutes later sealed the match with a second goal, scored by Nico Castro with a shot from the edge of the area that surprised Magunagotia.

The only downside for Elche is that Athletic's winger Nico Serrano seems to have chosen Sporting de Gijón, despite Sarabia almost confirming his arrival.