In a thrilling encounter at Nuevo Mirandilla, Elche CF secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Cádiz CF, further solidifying their position at the top of LaLiga Hypermotion. The decisive moment came in the 66th minute when Álvaro Núñez unleashed a stunning right-footed shot from outside the area that soared into the top corner, leaving Cádiz goalkeeper David Gil with no chance. This goal not only marked Núñez's first of the season but also extended Elche's winning streak to four consecutive matches.
The match began with Elche displaying their attacking intent early on, dominating possession and creating several opportunities. In the 18th minute, Agustín Álvarez found the back of the net after a well-placed cross from Germán Valera, only for the goal to be disallowed following a VAR review for offside. Despite the setback, Elche continued to press, with the likes of Mourad and Álvarez threatening the Cádiz defense.
Cádiz, however, gradually gained momentum as the first half progressed, testing Elche's goalkeeper Matías Dituro with a couple of close-range efforts. Notably, Chris Ramos struck the post in a one-on-one situation, which could have shifted the game's dynamics. As the first half ended, both teams headed into the locker rooms without a goal on the scoreboard.
Following the break, Elche maintained their aggressive approach, and the breakthrough finally came with Núñez's spectacular strike. The Cádiz players quickly rallied to equalize, but their hopes were dashed when José de la Rosa's goal was ruled out for offside shortly after Núñez’s opener.
Elche's defense held firm under increasing pressure from Cádiz in the closing stages, with captain Pedro Bigas making a crucial clearance off the line to preserve the lead. The final whistle confirmed Elche's victory, leaving them seven points clear of the third-placed team, with just seven matches remaining in the season.
Elche's head coach Éder Sarabia expressed his delight after the match, stating, "From many months, we have been getting good results, but we hadn’t had a streak like this before. These victories are a result of our great moment. It’s amazing to be the coach of this team. Cádiz posed difficulties for us, but we are in that point of accuracy and luck that allows us to believe more and more in what we do. I’m very happy for how joyful the people are and extremely grateful to my players."
The match attracted an attendance of 14,153 spectators, with over 200 Elche fans making the trip to support their team in Cádiz. The victory not only reinforces Elche's aspirations for direct promotion to the Primera División but also highlights their resilience and determination as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
Elche's next challenge will be at home against Albacete, as they look to continue their impressive form and inch closer to their goal of returning to the top flight of Spanish football. With the momentum on their side and a growing belief within the squad, the franjiverdes are poised for an exciting conclusion to the campaign.
