Martínez Valero marks 50 years as Elche face Real Sociedad | OneFootball

The Martínez Valero marks 50 years this week, with Elche hosting Real Sociedad. Opened on 8 September 1976 against Mexico, it was built quickly, later staged the 1982 World Cup and still bears Hungary's 10-1 over El Salvador.

According to AS, club historian Antonio Pamies says it has Spain's largest pitch. Elche have played 1103 official matches there, with tonight set to be 1104. The first win at the new ground, in October 1976, was also against La Real, scored by Gómez Voglino and Finarolli.

Beyond football, the stadium has served as a civic hub, hosting major concerts, faith gatherings and large blood donation drives. It also staged the 2003 Copa del Rey final between Mallorca and Recreativo.

Designed by Juan Boix Matarredona, its folklore includes a capacity target set one seat above the Rico Pérez. Built in record time, Boix once joked the real miracle would be paying for it.

On the pitch, Anselmi's team chase a first win after another draw, and early urgency has crept in. He said they cannot compete only in spells, though the defence was strengthened before the window shut. Revivo, Rubén Sánchez and Lomónaco could wait on the bench, as could Lemar.

La Real travel close to full strength, with Álvaro Odriozola still out and Pablo Marín back with the group but not yet ready. Jon Pacheco makes the squad. Mamadou Sarr and Héctor Fort could debut, a 4-3-3 is possible, and Mikel Oyarzabal is available after fatigue against Celta.

Source: AS

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