Racing vs Elche – News and Probable Lineups

On Friday, Racing de Santander will host Elche in a clash between two teams that have managed just one point from their opening two La Liga matches of the 2026-27 season.

Currently, Racing is positioned 14th in the La Liga standings, while Elche occupies 18th place, with both clubs eager to secure their first victories of the season in this week three encounter.

Match overview

This is Racing’s first venture into La Liga since the 2011-12 season. The Green and Whites earned their spot back in the top tier by clinching the Segunda Division title last season.

Jose Alberto’s team began their La Liga campaign with a 2-2 draw against Villarreal on August 16; however, they faced a 1-0 defeat against Getafe in their subsequent fixture on August 23.

Currently, Racing holds 14th place with a single point, and they will see this match as an ideal opportunity to claim their first win in La Liga this season.

The Green and Whites have been active in the transfer market this summer, bringing in nine new players, either on loan or permanently, including Sergio Canales, who has returned to the club where he began his professional journey in 2008.

In their previous 38 encounters against Elche, Racing has managed to secure only 11 victories, although they did triumph with a 2-0 result in their last meeting back in March 2025.

Although Elche has lost two of their last three matches against Racing, this will mark their first clash at the top level since February 1985.

The visitors come into this match following a heavy 5-0 defeat against champions Barcelona, which followed their 1-1 draw with Deportivo La Coruna on August 17.

Last season, the Green-striped team finished 15th in Spain’s top division after returning from the second tier, and they aim to secure consecutive seasons at this level for the first time since 2023.

Martin Anselmi’s side has made eight summer signings, with Buba Sangare’s transfer from Roma being the highlight deal.

Team News

Racing defender Jorge Salinas continues to attract interest from clubs such as Atletico Madrid, Barcelona, and Manchester United, but as it stands, the 19-year-old is expected to take part in the fixture against Elche.

The home side might have a full squad available for this match, though it remains uncertain whether Sergio Martinez will feature due to interest from Real Madrid.

Asier Villalibre is still on the hunt for his first goal with the new club, but the 28-year-old is likely to continue in the central role this Friday.

On Elche’s side, Yago Santiago remains sidelined with a knee injury.

Adam Boayar’s availability is also in doubt due to a thigh concern, with a late fitness test required to determine whether he can be included.

Facundo Buonanotte is pushing for a starting spot on Friday, although head coach Anselmi is anticipated to resist making significant changes after the disappointing defeat against Barcelona.

Racing de Santander probable starting XI:

Agirrezabala; Mantilla, Hernando, Ramon, Salinas; Door, I Martin; To Martin, Canales, Vicente; Villalibre

Elche probable starting XI:

Dituro; Chust, Redondo, Affengruber; Sangare, Villar, Aguado, Valera; Houary, Nino, Goodnight

This match is significant for both teams, especially at this early stage of the season; a closely contested scoreline is expected, but the home advantage could help Racing claim all three points.