Martin Anselmi Reveals Bold Possession Strategy for Elche vs Real Madrid

Elche Coach Martin Anselmi Sets a Clear Plan Against Real Madrid

Martin Anselmi, head coach of Elche, has called for his team to take control of the ball when they face Real Madrid at the Estadio Martinez Valero. The Argentine manager believes that keeping possession is the best way to defend against one of La Liga’s top sides.

Elche Eyes First Win With Ball Control

Elche, still searching for their first win this season, come into the game after a 1-1 draw away at Athletic Club. Despite accumulating points, Anselmi's team has conceded an average of 2.6 goals per match, and they have yet to beat Real Madrid in their last 16 league encounters. The challenge remains daunting but the plan is clear: dominate the ball and stay aggressive.

Demand for Fearlessness and Possession

During a pre-match press conference, Anselmi stressed the importance of courage and maintaining a strong identity on the pitch. He remarked, "The fact that we competed at San Mames makes us feel united and shows that this is the path to follow. For us, the best way to defend is to have the ball. I believe we must maintain the same defensive competitiveness from San Mames and defend ourselves with possession."

Focus Needed Against Clinical Opponents

The coach is fully aware of Real Madrid's ability to make complex plays look simple and warns his squad about the constant pressure. He added, "They make difficult passages of play look easy and push you to the limit; we can't afford to give anything away and must stay focused for the entire match."

Testing Schedule Awaits Real Madrid

After a convincing 4-1 win over Rayo Vallecano and a demanding Champions League game versus Inter, Real Madrid might rotate their squad to keep fresh. Manager Jose Mourinho aims to keep the pressure high as they approach the important capital derby this weekend. Meanwhile, Elche must overcome injuries—most notably missing Yago Santiago—and stop their three-game losing streak in La Liga if they want to pull off a shock result on Tuesday night.

• Match: Elche vs Real Madrid
• Date: 15 September 2026
• Time: 22:30
• Venue: Estadio Martinez Valero
• Elche's recent form: Winless this season, average 2.6 goals conceded per game
• Elche vs Real Madrid record: No wins in last 16 league matches
• Real Madrid recent results: 4-1 win vs Rayo Vallecano, Champions League match against Inter
• Key injury: Elche missing Yago Santiago