Barcelona head to Elche with a golden chance to stretch their lead at the La Liga summit | OneFootball

Elche host Barcelona at the Estadio Martinez Valero on Saturday evening as the La Liga leaders look to strengthen their grip at the top of the table.

Barcelona enter the weekend with Real Madrid applying renewed pressure after closing the gap to a single point.

With Madrid not in action until Sunday, Hansi Flick’s side have a clear opportunity to move four points clear and restore a degree of control in the title race.

The Catalan side approach the fixture in confident mood.

A 4-1 win over Copenhagen in midweek secured direct qualification to the Champions League last 16 and extended a strong run of results across competitions.

That victory allowed Barcelona to avoid a February play-off round and shift full focus back to domestic matters.

They have now won 14 of their last 15 matches in all competitions and remain one of the most consistent sides in Spain.

Away from home, Barcelona have also been reliable.

They boast the second-best away record in La Liga, collecting 22 points from 11 matches.

That form will be tested by an Elche side that has made the Martinez Valero a difficult venue this season.

Elche sit 11th in the table following promotion from the Segunda Division.

Eder Sarabia’s side have largely met expectations in their return to the top flight, but momentum has slowed in recent weeks.

They have collected only two points from their four league matches in 2026 and were beaten 3-2 by Levante last weekend.

Despite that dip, Elche’s home record remains a source of encouragement.

They have lost just once in 11 league matches at home, taking 20 points in the process.

That resilience has been key to keeping them clear of immediate relegation danger, even if the margin remains slim.

Barcelona are well aware that this fixture is unlikely to be straightforward.

Elche’s compact shape and willingness to disrupt rhythm has troubled stronger sides at home.

Patience and control will be required, particularly if the hosts look to slow the tempo and frustrate early.

History, however, favours the visitors.

Barcelona are unbeaten in their last 11 meetings with Elche in all competitions and have not lost this fixture since 1974.

That record reflects the gulf in quality, but Flick will be wary of complacency.

With Madrid now firmly in pursuit, Barcelona cannot afford another slip.

At this stage of the season, Barcelona know that control is earned week by week.

Saturday night in Elche is another test of their nerve.