Real Madrid returns to the La Liga, meeting with Elche, with hopes to finally end their unfavorable run in the league. Madrid is actually fresh from winning the FIFA Club World Cup, but does not guarantee them a win in this match. Although it is a boost of confidence, their current run in the league does not give them any advantage. Elche on the other hand comes into this game with a renewed confidence. This squad finally got their first win in the contest, after playing 19 matches. Although this squad will most likely to be eliminated, they are still aiming for wins in their matches. This match will be on February 16, 2023, at 4:00 AM (GMT+8), with Madrid as hosts.
It is not surprising that the hosts has a better record against the visitors, considering their performances in the recent years. In fact, the hosts are unbeaten in their last 23 home league games against the visitors. Additionally, the visitors last tasted victory against the hosts all the way back in March of 1978. However, they were able to draw two of their last three meetings against the hosts. The hosts are aiming to get more wins as they continue their search for the top spot in the league table.
Real Madrid
Madrid is coming from a thrilling 5-3 victory against Al-Hilal, giving them their fifth title in the FIFA Club World Cup. As they return in La Liga, they are hopeful to finally end their unpleasant run in the league. Currently at the second spot with 45 points, they remain hopeful with their chance of getting the top spot. However, doors are slowly closing on them as they are still trailing by 11 points against the top team. Since their World Cup break, this squad is not at their best. In fact, many were shocked when they were defeated by Mallorca in a 1-0 loss, on their last league game. With that, this squad seeks to find their form once again, as they continue their campaign of defending their title. They can earn confidence from the title they won during the FIFA Club World Cup.
Thibaut Courtois is expected to return as a starter in this game, after missing several games due to a minor injury. Lucas Vasquez, Ferland Mendy, and Eden Hazard will all miss this game because of their injury. Vinicius Jr. on the other hand is also out in this match, serving his suspension because of a yellow card.
Elche
Believe it or not, Elche just picked up their first ever win in the league this season, when they went against Villareal. All thanks to Pere Milla’s hat-trick, his squad was finally able to get a taste of victory. From their past 19 matches in the league, they lost to 13, so this win is a huge boost to their confidence. However, Elche will most likely be eliminated in the league, as they are at the last of the league table. They are at the 20th spot, with just nine points, 10 points behind the 19th place. Additionally, they are the worst attacking team this season, as they scored only 15 goals this season. Miracle is what they need to find themselves outside the hole, and survive early eliminations, which is unlikely.
Following his goal on their last game, Pere Milles is sidelined on this match, after undergoing a clavicle surgery. Additionally, John Nwankwo, Alex Collado, and Tete Morente are also be out in this game, following their injuries. Meanwhile, Omar Marscsrell, and Helibelton Palacios are both suspended, after accumulating yellow cards.
Prediction:
Real Madrid (3.0)
Odds: 0.85
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