Elche CF – Atlético de Madrid: Match Preview

Team news

A lot of Atlético supporters, yours truly included, left Saturday’s final a bit confused about why **Ademola Lookman** was subbed off early into the second half. On Monday, it was announced that the Nigerian winger felt a sharp pain in his adductor and that’s why he was taken off. It was also announced that **Alexander Sørloth** picked up a knock late in the final against La Real. Neither attacker will make the trip Wednesday. The severity of both injuries remains to be seen, and both players worked off to the side during Monday’s training session as a precaution. Many were concerned when **Marcos Llorente** was taken off late into extra time on Saturday after he appeared to tweak his lower back. However, the substitution appears to have just been precautionary, and Llorente returned to training as normal on Monday. On the defensive front, **Dávid Hancko** and **José María Giménez** continue to push on in their recovery from their respective injuries. Hancko appears more ready for a return than Josema, as there was chatter the Slovakian could have been risked, if needed, in the Copa del Rey final. On the transfer news front, it was reported late Friday that Barcelona is interested in Alexander Sørloth. This news certainly came out of left field, but given Robert Lewandowski’s uncertain future, Hansi Flick apparently admires the profile of Sørloth and views the Norwegian as a capable replacement.

Historical matchup

Atlético Madrid hold a 32–10–11 all-time record against Elche in LALIGA. In their last 10 league meetings, *Los Colchoneros*have a 8-1-1 record against the Franjiverdes. Atlético and Elche drew 1-1 back in August during a particularly frustrating match at the Metropolitano. Alexander Sørloth scored the lone goal for Atleti before Rafa Mir equalized. **Prediction:**1-0, Atleti win with a goal from Baena. **Possible 11**: Oblak; Julio Díaz, Le Normand, Lenglet, Javier Boñar; Cardoso, Mendoza, Nico, Baena, Almada; Alvarez

Notable players who have represented both clubs

Rodri Mendoza, Rubén Pérez, Jorge Otero, Germán Valera and Alejandro Iturbe.