Elche vs Real Madrid

Elche arrive at this fixture searching for answers after a difficult run, having picked up 2 points from their last 5 games. With 6 goals from 5 matches, their attack has been somewhat inconsistent, while defensively they have conceded more than they would like (2.6 per game).

Real Madrid arrive with their own narrative, shaped by a set of results that pulls in another direction. Recent form suggests Real Madrid are in red-hot form — 4 wins, 0 draws and 1 losses in their last 5. They have scored freely averaging 2.8 goals per game, while conceding 0.8. History between these two shows 2 home wins, 2 away wins and 2 draws from 6 meetings. The fixture has averaged 3.8 goals per meeting, with goals rarely in short supply.

The form figures point toward goals. With both teams averaging above a goal a game, neither defence looks built to silence the other's attack — a lively, multi-goal afternoon feels on the cards. Real Madrid will sense an opportunity to stamp their authority on this game early, knowing that an early goal could force Elche to take risks they would rather avoid.

Despite being away from home, Real Madrid come into this with the stronger recent record and will fancy their chances. The form guide points clearly in one direction, but football has a habit of defying expectations. All eyes turn to the La Liga when this one gets under way.