Eibar vs Elche. H2H, lineups and match prediction — December 16, 2025
On Tuesday, December 16, one of the matches in the Copa del Rey Round of 32 will see Eibar take on Elche. Read on for team insights and a match prediction in our in-depth preview below.
Match preview
Eibar come into this clash in a rough patch of form. In the Segunda, the team is winless in five straight matches, with Benat San Jose’s men most recently drawing 0-0 against Cordoba. This poor run has dropped the "Gunsmiths" into the relegation zone — they currently sit 20th with 18 points.
The only genuine bright spots for Eibar this season have come in the Copa del Rey. They’ve already knocked out two opponents, though it’s worth noting both were from lower divisions. First, they beat Najera 4-2, then cruised past Pontevedra 3-0. These results already surpass last season, when Eibar crashed out in the opening round to Logroñés.
Elche, meanwhile, are representing La Liga. The team is looking solid in the top flight and currently sit 11th in the table — a respectable result for a newly-promoted side.
In the Copa del Rey, Elche also started their campaign against lower-league opponents: first thrashing Los Garres 4-0, and then edging past Quintanar del Rey in a tough battle, snatching victory only in the 117th minute of extra time. It's worth noting that in the previous two seasons, Elche played in the Segunda alongside Eibar, so these sides know each other very well.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Four of Eibar’s last five matches have featured over two goals.
- Both teams have scored in five of Elche’s last seven matches.
- In the last ten head-to-head meetings, Elche have a clear advantage: six wins, while Eibar have taken three victories and one game ended in a draw.
- Their most recent encounter saw Elche win 2-0.
Probable lineups
- Eibar: López - Rodriguez, Arambarri, Arbilla, Buta - Toni, Olaetxea, Guruzeta, Ares - Martón, Magunazelaia
- Elche: Dituro - Nwankwo, Diaby, Chust, Bigas - Redondo, Mendoza, Boayar - Josan, Houary, Mir
Prediction
This match is likely to be a low-scoring affair. Both teams have a lot riding on the outcome, so expect them to play cautiously, with a strong emphasis on defensive solidity. I don’t anticipate many goals — a 0-0 or 1-1 scoreline is likely, which could push the game into extra time. My prediction: total goals under 2.5.
