The provincial derby between CD Eldense and Elche CF ended without goals, as both teams struggled to create significant chances during the 90 minutes played at the Nuevo Pepico Amat stadium. The match, held on December 15, 2024, drew 3,802 spectators, including about 1,000 Elche fans who traveled the short distance to support their team.
Entering the match, Elche CF was coming off strong performances, including a recent victory over Cádiz, and was placed higher on the league table. Conversely, Eldense found itself perilously close to the relegation zone, having not scored in their previous three matches. With these dynamics, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and intensity.
Despite the hype surrounding the game, the match itself unfolded as rather uneventful. Both teams opted for cautious approaches, which stifled any offensive creativity. Eldense, under the management of Dani Ponz, deployed a 1-4-4-2 formation, focusing defensively, as they sought to avoid falling below the relegation line.
On the other hand, Elche, managed by Eder Sarabia, approached the match with a confident mindset, evidenced by their initial possession. Sarabia's setup also emphasized strength at the back, rolling out three central defenders to counter any threat posed by Eldense's attackers.
The first real threat of the game came from Eldense, as Iván Chapela's shot struck the post, sending the home crowd momentarily to their feet, only for the rebound to be squandered by Juanto Ortuño, who failed to convert from close range. This would prove to be one of the clearest opportunities of the match, highlighting both the frustration of Eldense and the competence of Elche’s defense.
Elche, for all their possession, found it challenging to penetrate Eldense’s organized backline. The away side had their moments too; Yago Santiago forced Eldense goalkeeper Ian Mackay to make notable saves, but they often lacked the precision required to convert chances. The most significant opportunity for Elche, like their counterparts, came too late to change the outcome.
Despite the tactical formations used, neither coach was able to claim largesse. Both teams appeared unwilling to sacrifice their defensive integrity for the sake of attacking—leaving audiences wanting more from the derby matchup.
Commenting on the performance, Eder Sarabia expressed dissatisfaction with his team's lack of penetration, saying, "Hemos tenido algún acercamiento que no hemos sido precisos... no me ha gustado el partido," acknowledging their fifth game without defeat away from home but emphasizing the need for improvement.
Dani Ponz, echoing the frustration, noted the urgency for Eldense to convert opportunities, which becomes particularly important as they now face the threat of relegation. "El empate no le vale al Eldense para cumplir su objetivo... pasaremos los próximos días en zona de descenso tras el triunfo del Cádiz," he revealed, highlighting the team’s precarious position.
Throughout the match, there were tactical nuances worth discussing. Eldense played conservatively, seemingly content with securing one point, opting to focus on securing their defensive stability rather than stretching themselves too thinly forward. Elche increased their efforts but struggled to translate possession stats to tangible scoring opportunities.
Coaches’ substitutions failed to inject fresh vigor onto the field—Elche's attempts to switch players for more attacking vigor didn't yield desired returns, exemplifying yet again how tightly contested the game turned out to be.
Finishing the match locked at 0-0, both teams walked away with more questions than answers. For Elche CF, the draw may preserve their promotion playoff position, but for Eldense, the realization of falling under the relegation line adds pressure heading late in the season.
Looking forward, both teams have key matches on the horizon. Eldense will travel to Málaga for their next clash, desperately needing points, whereas Elche will host Racing de Santander. The outcomes of these games may shift the current narrative for both squads as they seek their respective season objectives.
Overall, this derby, marked by respect and defense over flourish, leaves fans longing for the next chance to see both teams spark their attacking forms, adding urgency to their coming fixtures. The result may reflect the tactical stalemate, but both clubs know they must push through to rise above the challenges at hand.
