Elche CF came from behind to beat Pinatar CF 3-1 in the Copa del Rey, avoiding a potential cup upset with a controlled second-half display. Pinatar’s early energy gave the home side a shock lead, but Elche’s superior quality and composure eventually told as they scored three unanswered goals.

Match overview

The tie began at a high tempo, with Pinatar pressing aggressively and looking to make the most of any uncertainty in Elche’s defensive third. That approach paid off in the first half when Pinatar opened the scoring, sending the home crowd into loud celebration. Elche responded well, maintaining possession and gradually pushing the game into Pinatar’s half. The equaliser arrived before the break, settling Elche’s nerves and changing the tone of the contest.

After half-time, Elche took firmer control. They moved the ball more quickly, stretched Pinatar’s defence with wide overlaps and created clearer chances. The second goal came midway through the second half after a patient build-up, and the third arrived late on as Pinatar tired and left space at the back. The lower-league side kept fighting, but Elche’s professionalism saw the game out comfortably.

Key moments

• 12th minute: Pinatar CF take a surprise lead with a confident finish after winning the ball high up the pitch.
• 39th minute: Elche CF equalise with a close-range finish after a sustained spell of possession.
• 58th minute: Elche take the lead through a well-placed shot from the edge of the box.
• 74th minute: Pinatar’s goalkeeper makes a strong save to keep the deficit at one goal.
• 82nd minute: Elche seal the win with a third goal on the counter-attack.

Tactical story

Pinatar’s early plan was clear: press high, disrupt Elche’s build-up and use set pieces to create chances. It worked for a while, and the opening goal gave them something to defend. But as the match wore on, Elche’s technical advantage became more apparent. Their midfielders found pockets of space between Pinatar’s lines, and their wide players consistently beat the full-backs to deliver dangerous crosses.

Elche also managed the game well after taking the lead. They did not overcommit in search of a fourth goal and kept enough bodies behind the ball to deny Pinatar any route back into the tie. Pinatar’s intensity dropped in the final 20 minutes, and Elche’s superior fitness and bench options helped them close out the match without further alarm.

Standout performers

Elche’s attacking midfielder was central to their comeback, linking play and finding space in the final third throughout the second half. The winger who provided the assist for the second goal also caused problems with direct running. For Pinatar, their goalkeeper kept the score respectable with several saves, while the opening scorer worked tirelessly against a stronger defence. Pinatar’s captain also deserves credit for organising the side during a difficult second half.

What it means

Elche CF progress in the Copa del Rey with a performance that mixed early vulnerability with professional control. A cup tie against lower-league opposition is often about survival first and style second, and Elche did enough in both respects. Pinatar CF exit with credit: they scored first, tested a professional side and gave their supporters a memorable occasion. For Elche, the result is a reminder that they will need to start more sharply in the next round.