Elche - Real Sociedad

Ezequiel Ponce remains the focal point for Elche as they look to steady their campaign during this matchday 4 fixture at Estadio Martinez Valero on 7 September 2026. The forward is expected to spearhead the attack alongside Tete Morente, aiming to provide a much-needed spark after a difficult run that included a heavy defeat to Barcelona and a narrow loss against Racing Santander. With Fer Nino sidelined due to injury, the midfield trio of Facundo Buonanotte, Marc Aguado, and Gonzalo Villar faces the significant task of controlling the tempo against a technically gifted opposition.

Real Sociedad arrive looking to build on their recent goalless draw with Celta Vigo and a victory over Espanyol. Mikel Oyarzabal and Takefusa Kubo are expected to lead the line, providing the creative impetus that has historically troubled Elche in previous meetings. While the visitors have shown defensive vulnerability in a heavy defeat to Real Madrid, their ability to find the net consistently suggests they will test Matias Dituro early. This encounter serves as a crucial opportunity for both sides to establish momentum in the early stages of the LaLiga season.