Real Madrid defeated Elche CF 4-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday, extending the visitors’ winless streak to 11 matches while keeping the hosts one point behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race.
Real Madrid secured the victory with goals from Antonio Rüdiger in the 39th minute, Federico Valverde in the 44th, and Dean Huijsen in the 66th. Arda Güler capped off the scoring in the 89th minute with a spectacular lob from inside his own half. Elche’s lone score came via a Manuel Ángel own goal.
Mais quel but d'Arda Guler ! 😱🇹🇷 Le prodige du Real Madrid a lobé le gardien d'Elche depuis son propre camp… à 70 mètres du but ! Le Bernabéu est toujours sous le choc. Le Prix Puskás déjà plié ? 🔥🚀 #RealMadrid #ArdaGuler https://t.co/VCxdCLkNwj
— GOAL France 🇫🇷 (@GoalFrance) March 14, 2026
Following the defeat, Elche manager Eder Sarabia demanded a stronger collective effort from his squad. Speaking in his post-match press conference, Sarabia said his players must show more pride and courage to defend the shirt until the end of the season. Sarabia noted that his team started well but lost possession too easily without attacking depth, pointing to the crucial first goal conceded just before halftime as a turning point. Despite dropping perilously close to the relegation zone, Sarabia expressed optimism that he can reverse the current 11-game drought.
Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa heavily rotated his squad, finishing the match with seven academy players on the pitch. The tactical rotation comes as the club prepares for an upcoming Champions League clash against Manchester City. Sarabia praised Arbeloa’s bravery in fielding the young squad and specifically commended Güler, describing the Turkish midfielder as a colossal player and calling his long-range strike perfect.
The match also saw Elche defender Buba Sangaré substituted after experiencing dizziness following a heavy head collision with Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga.