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Diari Valencià

Elche CF Returns to Relegation Zone After Challenging Matchday

The defeat in Vallecas, the 'ex-player's law,' and referee controversies mark the return of the 'franjiverdes' to the dangerous positions in the league table.

Generic image of a soccer ball on a grass field.
IA

Generic image of a soccer ball on a grass field.

Elche CF has returned to the relegation zone of Primera División after a challenging matchday, marked by defeat in Vallecas, the 'ex-player's law,' and referee decisions that have caused discontent within the club.

The weekend did not go as expected for Elche CF. Following the international break, the 'franjiverdes' suffered a defeat in Vallecas, and Mallorca's victory has sent them back into the relegation positions, causing concern among the team and fans.
Friday's match in Vallecas extended the team's poor away form. The squad, led by Eder Sarabia, continues to be winless on the road in the league, having accumulated only 4 points out of a possible 45, making them the worst team in the category in this regard.
The defeat was particularly painful due to a goal scored by former player Randy Nteka. Although the French forward did not have a standout period with the Elche team in the 2022-2023 season, his goal was decisive for Rayo, adding to other instances of the 'ex-player's law' suffered this season with goals from Boyé (Alavés) and Mascarell (Mallorca).
Another decisive factor was the expulsion of Pedro Bigas for a double yellow card in the first half, which significantly impacted Elche's performance. This refereeing decision has reignited widespread dissatisfaction within the club regarding the officiating received this season, as they believe there is an imbalance between fouls committed and cards received.
Bigas's suspension poses an additional problem for Eder Sarabia ahead of the regional derby against Valencia. In addition to the captain's absence, there are doubts about the physical condition of Víctor Chust and the unavailability of John Chetauya, forcing a defensive reshuffle.
Finally, the well-known 'FIFA virus' also indirectly affected Elche. Although their international players did not have a direct impact, the fact that Real Madrid could not defeat Mallorca (2-1) allowed the Balearic team to escape relegation, increasing the pressure on the 'franjiverdes,' who had hoped the 'merengues' would maintain the bottom positions unchanged.

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