Deportivo vs Elche: La Liga Match Preview

Deportivo will kick off their La Liga campaign against Elche on August 18, 2026, after finishing second in the Segunda Division last season. With a record of 22 wins, 11 draws, and 9 losses, Deportivo secured their return to La Liga for the first time since the 2017-2018 season. Their goal for the upcoming season is to remain in the top tier of Spanish football.

To bolster their squad, Deportivo has made several key signings, including goalkeeper Leo Roman from Mallorca. The team, managed by Antonio Hidalgo, is eager to make a strong impression in their first match back in La Liga.

Historically, the matchup between Deportivo and Elche has been competitive. In their previous 45 encounters, Deportivo has won 17 times, while Elche has claimed victory 19 times, with 9 matches ending in a draw. Notably, Elche defeated Deportivo 4-0 in their last meeting in June 2025, showcasing their strength.

Elche, who finished 15th in La Liga last season, is also looking to improve this year. Under the guidance of coach Martin Anselmi, they have signed 8 new players, including Facundo Buonanotte on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion. Elche has had a strong preseason, remaining unbeaten in friendly matches, including a recent 3-0 win over Toulouse.

In terms of player availability, Deportivo will assess the fitness of young midfielder Noe Carrillo, who is recovering from an ankle injury. The home side is expected to feature several new signings, including experienced left-back Angelino, who joined on loan from Roma, and forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Elche will be without Yago Santiago and Grady Diangana due to injuries, but new signing Fer Nino is likely to play a crucial role in their attack. Key players Gonzalo Villar and Victor Chust may also make their debuts, while David Affengruber, a sought-after center-back, is expected to start.

The anticipated lineup for Deportivo includes Roman, Navarro, Ede, Noubi, Angelino, Amatucci, Soriano, Villares, Cruz, Nsongo, and Aubameyang. Elche's expected lineup features Dituro, Chust, Bigas, Affengruber, Sangare, Villar, Aguado, Valera, Houary, Nino, and Cepeda.

This match promises to be an exciting start to the La Liga season for both teams, with kick-off scheduled for 2:00 AM on August 18, Vietnam time.