The dream of elite football against a weaker opponent. Elche coach Martín Anselmi is well aware that the class difference between his team and their Copa del Rey first-round opponent, La Unión Atlético, should be demonstrated on the pitch through effort, not just on paper. On Monday, he stated at the pre-match press conference: "I attach great importance to the Copa del Rey."
"I believe a team that can win is a team that always wants to win and can build momentum through positive energy," Anselmi added, urging the team to continue their recent good form from the league. He confirmed there would be rotations, with both Alejandro Iturbe and Kevin Lomónaco starting. Both will make their Elche debuts—the former after waiting over a year, the latter several weeks after joining in September.
"Whether it's Iturbe or other players who haven't had much playing time, they will be crucial to our rotation. Our squad is balanced in quality, with good players in every position. There are always people working hard for an opportunity, and I want to see them on the field," Anselmi said.
Anselmi also addressed the artificial turf and the potential for complacency. "The first few minutes can be very uncomfortable, making it difficult to find our rhythm. We have to adapt gradually as the game progresses and get used to the surface. It's just a factor, not an obstacle or a barrier. We must learn to adapt," he said.
No Room for Complacency
"We never felt this knockout round was already won. Talking about such a situation would only create unnecessary noise. In football today, to win, you have to compete and perform well," he said, addressing the gap in strength between Elche and La Unión Atlético and the potential complacency it might bring.
Anselmi concluded by recalling his experiences in South America, where he faced similar situations in cup competitions. "For La Unión Atlético, facing a top-tier team is a motivation. I've been in their position—eliminating a top-tier team from Argentina's third division—and I've had similar experiences in Brazilian tournaments. I understand what this game means to them, and it's also an opportunity for them to show what they can do," the Elche coach said.
"La Unión Atlético likes to attack quickly and press aggressively, but against us, they might be more cautious. We must give everything from the start and not underestimate our opponent, because we're facing a team that will push us hard," he concluded.