Elche vs Valladolid prediction: SPAIN: LaLiga betting tips on match 2023-03-10 15:15.
Dubbing this relegation battle a âsix-pointerâ is perhaps an underestimation when bottom-placed Elche host Real Valladolid with some calling this a âfinalâ for the hosts after a dramatic 1-0 victory over Mallorca kept their slim hopes of La Liga (LL) survival alive. A 13-point gap to safety makes each remaining contest vital for Elche, who have lowered ticket prices in order to entice the biggest crowds. Goalscorer from last round Lucas BoyĂ© was emanating the optimistic vibes, stating that they will âkeep putting (their) chest out so the Elche fans feel represented".
There will be an emotional subtext to this occasion as the hosts pay tribute to ex-Elche player Pelayo Novo, who sadly passed away at the age of 32 last week. The home faithful will hope to honour his memory by capturing their third win in six matches (W2, L3) which would further fuel their LL revival after not sealing a single triumph in the 19 league outings prior this season.
Achieving that feat will be far from simple after Elche failed to win any of their five LL encounters against the Pucelanos this century (D4, L1). Hoping to continue that run, the visitors will travel early to adapt to the stifling temperatures expected this Saturday, and as they dangle just two points above the drop zone, theyâll attempt to emulate their 2-1 victory over Espanyol from last round.
The Pucela have experienced some woes on the road recently, losing seven of their last eight league away outings whilst scoring only two goals in the process. Only CĂĄdiz have found the net fewer times than Valladolid on their LL travels this season (seven) and with each of their last 25 top-flight victories seeing them strike first – a run dating back to March 2019 – a good start might be vital if theyâre to pull away from the relegation places.
Players to watch: Elche will hope BoyĂ©âs uptick continues here as heâs scored in successive LL appearances after netting just one goal from his previous 27 games in the competition. Gonzalo Plata will hope to continue his own impressive form, having delivered two assists last time out, as well as a pair of assists in Valladolidâs 2-1 reverse fixture triumph.
Hot stat: Valladolid have scored just two second-half goals across their last 11 LL away contests.