Elche boss reveals plan to challenge Real Madrid: ‘Will do some of the things Getafe did’ | OneFootball

Elche manager Eder Sarabia has shared his thoughts ahead of his team’s difficult trip to face Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The match comes shortly after Real Madrid’s impressive 3-0 victory over Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League, a performance that has further boosted confidence within the Spanish giants.

Despite the challenge ahead, Sarabia believes his team must approach the match with ambition and confidence.

“Our mindset and goal is to win. We’ve struggled more on the road, but maybe this is the day our luck turns.”

A tough challenge

Sarabia acknowledged that facing Real Madrid at the Bernabeu is one of the toughest challenges in football, especially with Madrid coming into the game after such a strong European performance.

“To do that, we’ll have to do a lot of things right against one of the best teams in the world, in one of the toughest stadiums, and after they’ve just played their best game of the season.”

However, the Elche manager remains optimistic and believes studying Madrid’s recent matches has helped his team prepare.

”I’m optimistic. We have watched many of their recent matches and learned from many of their opponents.”

He also recalled the earlier meeting between the two teams this season, when Elche managed to compete strongly for long periods.

“We’re going to need to be at our best, but we believe in ourselves. 

“In the first leg [where Elche held Real Madrid to a 2-2 draw], for long stretches, we were the better team, and we’re going all out. There’s no doubt about it.”

Taking inspiration from Getafe

Sarabia will take inspiration from Getafe. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Sarabia pointed to Getafe as an example of how Real Madrid can be challenged. 

Getafe recently secured a league victory against Madrid, and the Elche coach believes there are lessons to take from that performance.

“What Getafe did wasn’t a fluke. They put in a spectacular defensive performance, their goalkeeper was one of the best, and Madrid missed a lot of chances, but it wasn’t a fluke.”

He explained that Elche must remain fully convinced about their tactical plan if they want to compete.

“We have to be absolutely convinced of what we want to do. We’ll have to defend our area a lot, and we’ll try to do it less often than Getafe did.”

Still, Sarabia understands that Real Madrid’s attacking quality can push any team deep into defence.

“It’s Madrid, and they can force you into that situation. We’ve also learned from Getafe, and we want to do some of the things they did there.”

Analysing Arbeloa

The coach also noted that his staff have closely analysed recent matches played by Madrid under manager Alvaro Arbeloa.

“We have focused more on Arbeloa’s recent performances. Madrid has also shown tactical depth. We’ll look at their fullback options, whether Gonzalo plays or not.”

Another factor could be Real Madrid’s busy schedule and the physical effort they put into their Champions League clash.

“Maybe if they hadn’t played that great game, they wouldn’t be so mentally strong. We’re going to see a Madrid team with energy after the City match. 

“Even with injuries, they’ll field a great team. We have to steer the game where it benefits us.”

Praising Real Madrid

Sarabia has praised Real Madrid’s depth. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Sarabia also highlighted the quality of Madrid’s key players, particularly Federico Valverde and Thibaut Courtois.

“If there’s one thing Arbeloa knows, it’s what it means to be a Madrid fan. He grew up with it. He knows that Valverde embodies those values.”

“I’m still a die-hard fan and I’m picking the best starting XI in the world. I’m still putting Valverde and Courtois in because they’re among the best.”

He also emphasised the depth of the Madrid squad.

“But it’s not just them. Vinicius, the young guys who are playing… That’s Madrid. 

“If he gives anyone a rest, another good player will step up. We have to be ready for the highest level of competition.”

Finally, Sarabia spoke about the challenge of dealing with Vinicius Jr., one of Real Madrid’s most dangerous attacking players.

“Vinicius is getting more involved in the play from the inside out. He’s not always wide open. 

“From there, it might be up to a wingback or a centre back to mark him. Pedrosa, Petrot, Tete, or Buba can defend him well,” he concluded.

Source: AS