Chilean footballer Lucas Cepeda, considered a strategic reinforcement for the future of Elche CF, joined the club during the last winter transfer window with a contract until 2030. Despite high expectations, his arrival coincided with a challenging period for the team, which was experiencing a crisis of results and found itself in relegation positions.

After playing six matches, four of them as a starter, and 340 minutes without scoring, Cepeda broke his goal drought in the derby against Valencia. Coach Eder Sarabia brought him onto the field in the 71st minute, and the Chilean took only 74 seconds to justify his substitution.

The goal-scoring play began with intense pressure from Cepeda and a pass to Febas. Shortly after, Febas returned the ball with a magnificent assist that left the Chilean alone inside the box. Cepeda controlled skillfully and calmly beat goalkeeper Dimitrievski, scoring his first goal in the 'franjiverde' jersey.

This goal not only secured victory for Elche in the derby but also provided a much-needed boost in the league standings, moving them away from the relegation zone. Cepeda's celebration, featuring a gesture of bringing his index finger to his mouth, was interpreted by some as a potential defiant message against initial criticisms of his performance.