Atletico Madrid vs Elche Prediction & Betting Tips - LaLiga

Prediction published on 27/12/2022, 13:58  by Joseph King | Modified on 27/12/2022 at 13:58 in LaLiga Predictions

The Spanish top division returns with matchday 17 of La Liga after the World Cup break with Atletico Madrid taking on Elche at the Metropolitano Stadium in the capital. Atletico have struggled for consistency in this campaign, as mixed results in the league have left them sitting fifth while a disappointing Champions League campaign saw them crash out in the group stage finishing bottom of their group. Los Colchoneros have accumulated 24 points by way of seven victories, three draws and four defeats, which has them trailing fourth-place Athletic Club on goal differential but trailing leaders Barcelona by a massive 13 points. Atletico returned to competitive play on Thursday with a 3-1 away win over Arenteiro in the Copa del Rey. The victory was only their second in the last seven matches across all competitive competitions. 

Standing in their way is an Elche team still searching for their first league win of the season. Los Franjiverdes have only managed four total points from their 14 league matches, with zero wins and 10 defeats. The visitors were at least able to get a win on the board after their 3-0 Copa del Rey victory over Guadalajara, their second consecutive victory in the competition and their only two competitive victories of the season. The season results so far leave Elche in a desperate situation as they looked set for an arduous battle if they are to survive relegation to the second division. They currently find themselves eight points off of safety, trailing 17th-place Celta Vigo who sit on 12 points. 

The fitness of a number of Atletico players involved in lengthy World Cup campaigns are in question ahead of this fixture. Manager Diego Simeone will be hoping to have the influential Antoine Grieizmann back after the Frenchman played a vital role in helping his team finish as runners-up. We expect the 31-year-old to suit up for his club team here however, as with a number of other players including Rodridgo De Paul, Angel Correa and Nahuel Molina who could all see some action against Elche.