Elche's impressive 2-2 draw against Real Madrid has left many pundits scratching their heads, with the Austrian center-back David Affengruber admitting that his team is "a little bit disappointed" to have only secured a point against the league leaders. However, Elche's coach, Eder Sarabia, takes a different view.
Sarabia is furious about the referee's decision not to award a penalty in the 87th minute, which saw Jude Bellingham score a goal that was clearly assisted by his arm. "The foul was absolutely clear, absolutely clear… and that's what VAR is for," Sarabia said.
Despite the controversy, Elche's performance against Madrid was exceptional, with the team playing some of the best football of their season. Sarabia praised his players for their bravery and high press, which created numerous chances, including two goals from set pieces.
Elche's approach to the game was one that Sarabia has been advocating for throughout his tenure as coach. He wants his team to be proactive, pressing high up the pitch and looking to create scoring opportunities through their play, rather than simply defending deep.
The result may have been a point against Madrid, but Elche is still on course for European qualification, with only two points separating them from a Champions League slot. The draw was a testament to Sarabia's team's ability to adapt to different opponents and situations, and his players' commitment to playing the type of football that he wants.
As Sarabia noted, "we played amazing football" at the Estadio Martínez Valero on Sunday. This kind of performance is what makes Elche special, according to their coach.
Sarabia is furious about the referee's decision not to award a penalty in the 87th minute, which saw Jude Bellingham score a goal that was clearly assisted by his arm. "The foul was absolutely clear, absolutely clear… and that's what VAR is for," Sarabia said.
Despite the controversy, Elche's performance against Madrid was exceptional, with the team playing some of the best football of their season. Sarabia praised his players for their bravery and high press, which created numerous chances, including two goals from set pieces.
Elche's approach to the game was one that Sarabia has been advocating for throughout his tenure as coach. He wants his team to be proactive, pressing high up the pitch and looking to create scoring opportunities through their play, rather than simply defending deep.
The result may have been a point against Madrid, but Elche is still on course for European qualification, with only two points separating them from a Champions League slot. The draw was a testament to Sarabia's team's ability to adapt to different opponents and situations, and his players' commitment to playing the type of football that he wants.
As Sarabia noted, "we played amazing football" at the Estadio Martínez Valero on Sunday. This kind of performance is what makes Elche special, according to their coach.
but it's defo a harsh call for Elche 
️. Sarabia's right to be upset though, that arm assist was super clear 
. What I love about Elche is they're not just defending, they're proactive and creating chances through their play 
. That kind of football is so attractive to watch 
. And yeah, 2-2 against Real Madrid is an amazing result 
. Sarabia's squad is looking strong 
. Can't wait to see how they progress in the season 
!! sarabia's been preachin' this high press game for ages and it's finally payin off! those set piece goals were insane 
and bellingham's arm was clearly in the way... i don't know why ref didnt give pen. anyway, 2-2 draw is def a point in elche's favor 
elche played an amazing game and their style of play is so inspiring! the way they high press and create scoring chances through their play is something i love watching... sarabia you're doing an awesome job, keep up the good work!!! 
. Still, can't deny that Elche played some insane football on Sunday. That high press is infectious, and it's clear Sarabia has them believing in their own abilities 
! The way they high pressed and created those scoring chances was insane 
! I know some people are saying the ref made a dodgy call, but come on, you can't deny the quality of play from both teams 
. Sarabia's coaching skills are being proven right again – he's doing something special in Elche 
The fact that they missed that clear penalty is just ridiculous. And Sarabia's right, VAR is in place for a reason... it's not like he's asking for the moon here 
. Elche's on course for European qualification now, and I'm excited to see how they'll do in the next few weeks 
. On the other hand, his praise for his team's bravery and high press is well-deserved - they definitely gave Real Madrid a run for their money! 
. Still, I gotta wonder what would've happened if that pen had been awarded... would Madrid have lost? That's a whole 'nother story 
, but i do think he's onto something with his team's approach to the game 
. they're playing some really exciting football right now and it's great to see them sticking to their guns and not getting discouraged by a controversial call 
. elche is definitely on course for europe and it'll be interesting to see how they navigate the final stretch of the season 
the fact that they're still in contention for european qualification is just amazing 
But yeah, Elche played some amazin' footy out there, they're defo on course for Europe now 
but seriously, elche played some of the best football of their season, and it's sick to see sarabia's tactics paying off. european qualification is still within reach, so let's not get too excited yet 
.
oh man that's such a frustrating situation for elche's players and coach sarabia i can imagine how disappointing it must be for them to have that clear penalty call denied especially with the momentum in their favor at 2-1 