Three months ago, Valencia CF and Elche CF faced each other in a derby that, unknowingly, would change their league fortunes. The match, played at Mestalla on matchday 19, saw Elche CF leading by a narrow margin thanks to a goal from Diang, while Valencia CF was in a critical situation, close to relegation.
The situation was one of tranquility for the green-striped team and anguish for the Valencianistas. However, a penalty converted by Pepelu (Denia, 1998) in the 87th minute leveled the score at one. This goal, which prevented Elche CF's first away victory of the season, was the starting point for a radical shift in the dynamics of both clubs.
Pepelu's penalty changed everything. Valencia could even have won the derby in injury time. They didn't, which prolonged their bad streak. Elche didn't win away, but the point was considered good.
Valencia CF, who arrived at the match with five winless games and in the relegation zone, found momentum in this goal. A week later, they broke their bad streak by winning in Getafe and began a comeback with six victories in the last ten matches, moving away from the dangerous zone.
Conversely, Elche CF, who at that time was navigating the middle of the table and even looking towards Europe, saw their dynamic falter. Since that match, they have only achieved one victory in the same period, falling into the relegation zone and being six points behind Valencia CF. The upcoming derby, to be played at Martínez Valero, is crucial for both teams, with roles reversed compared to January.
