Elche is looking to enhance their slim chances of qualifying for European competition as they head into a crucial La Liga matchup against the struggling Levante this Friday night.
Currently, Levante finds itself in the relegation zone in 19th place, with just 14 points from 19 matches, eight points adrift of safety held by Valencia. The team has seen better days, with a record of three wins, five draws, and 11 losses this season. Despite being the reigning champions of the Segunda Division, Levante has faced challenges in their debut La Liga season, particularly with their defense, having conceded 32 goals—the second worst in the league. However, they have demonstrated some offensive prowess, scoring 21 goals, the highest in the bottom five teams.
The Frogs are coming off a 2-0 loss to Real Madrid but have managed to pick up five points from their last four league fixtures, with one loss in that span. Their home performance this season has been troubling, having only secured three points in eight matches and allowing 18 goals.
In contrast, Elche sits in eighth place with 24 points after 20 matches. Their record consists of five wins, nine draws, and six defeats, putting them within striking distance of the top six and a potential European spot. Eder Sarabia’s squad recently drew 2-2 with Sevilla, continuing their search for a first win of 2026, with their last victory occurring in December against Rayo Vallecano. Elche has been strong at home but struggles away, having failed to win in nine away matches this season, suffering five losses.
In their previous encounter earlier this season, Elche secured a 2-0 victory over Levante, marking their first success against them since April 2021.
In terms of team news, Levante will be missing several key players due to injuries, including Diego Pampin, Victor Garcia, Roger Brugue, and Unai Elgezabal. Ivan Romero’s situation will be assessed following his substitution against Real Madrid. On the other hand, Elche may again be without Pedro Bigas, John Donald, Hector Fort, Rafa Mir, and Alvaro Nunez due to injuries.
Both teams will be searching for crucial points during this match, with Elche eyeing a European challenge and Levante desperate to avoid relegation. Given both teams’ recent performances and the pressing stakes, analysts predict a closely contested match and foresee a possible draw, with a predicted score of 1-1.