After returning to the top flight, Elche are trying to stay away from the relegation zone and are doing this mainly thanks to strong home performances. Sevilla, meanwhile, continue to decline: in recent weeks Matías Almeyda’s side have lost almost everything and are stuck near the bottom of the standings.
Elche
Elche are not having the best January but are maintaining a recognisable style. Eder Sarabia’s team have taken only one point from two league rounds and have been eliminated from the Copa del Rey. However, at Estadio Martínez Valero the club remain a very dangerous force. Eighty‑three percent of their points have been earned at home. At their home ground the side have scored 17 of their 25 goals and conceded only 8 times. The defeat to Villarreal (1:3) underlined the difference in class, but before that match they had beaten Rayo Vallecano (4:0) and Girona (3:0) at home and drawn with Real Madrid (2:2).
Sevilla
Sevilla seem to have lost their bearings. Matías Almeyda’s team have lost four matches in a row in all competitions and have not scored a single goal. Away from home it is even worse: one point from their last five away matches in the La Liga, and only two clean sheets in nine away league games. The personnel situation is also poor: suspensions and injuries have been plaguing them. In the upcoming match Marcão, Adnan Januzaj, César Azpilicueta, Alfon González and Rubén Vargas will not play.
Elche vs Sevilla Prediction
In head-to-head meetings Sevilla have remained an awkward opponent for Elche, who have gone six years without a win in the La Liga. However, the current situation clearly suggests that this series may end. Eder Sarabia has built a team who at home can outplay any opponent, while the visitors look exhausted and emotionally drained. We expect the hosts to avoid defeat in a high-scoring match.
