Valencia return to Mestalla aiming to respond after their heavy 4-1 defeat at Celta Vigo, but they must do so without suspended striker Hugo Duro. Despite his absence, we predict a 2-1 home win as Elche are not regarded as good travellers. Los Che have been competitive at home (DWDD), averaging 1.75 total goals per match at Mestalla and conceding just 0.75 goals per home game, a strong defensive figure compared to their away record. However, their attack remains inconsistent, scoring only 1.00 goal per home match and posting a modest 1.49 xG on home turf.Elche, meanwhile, welcome midfielder Federico Redondo back from suspension as they look to bounce back from their 3-1 loss to Villarreal. Their overall form (WLWWL) suggests unpredictability, but they have been relatively solid domestically, winning 40% of their matches and scoring 2.20 goals per game at homeâthough that drops to 1.00 away. Elcheâs away defence is vulnerable, conceding 1.60 goals per match, which could open the door for Valencia despite Duroâs absence.
