Spanish La Liga side Elche secured a 3-1 victory over Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium despite playing with 10 men for most of the match after Federico Redondo was sent off in the sixth minute.
Elche took the lead in the 26th minute when Roy Revivo picked out Fernando Niño, who finished with his left foot.
The visitors doubled their advantage just three minutes later, with Revivo again providing the assist as Niño completed his brace with a right-footed effort.
Espanyol dominated possession after Elche were reduced to 10 men, controlling 66 per cent of the ball and producing 22 attempts compared to the visitors’ nine.
However, Elche remained dangerous on the counter and went into the interval two goals ahead.
The hosts eventually reduced the deficit in the 72nd minute when Víctor Chust turned a dangerous cross into his own net.
Espanyol appeared to have found a way back into the contest, but Elche responded six minutes later.
Tete Morente released Germán Valera on a quick counter-attack, and the winger calmly finished with his left foot to restore Elche’s two-goal cushion.
The visitors held on comfortably thereafter despite continued pressure from Espanyol.
Valera was named Player of the Match after producing an 8.8 Sofascore rating.
He completed 24 of 28 passes, won nine duels, made three tackles and four clearances, while his progressive carries repeatedly helped Elche escape pressure.
Niño also impressed with an 8.5 rating after scoring twice from two shots, while Revivo recorded both assists and created two big chances.
Elche’s victory was particularly notable for their efficiency, as they converted all three of their big chances despite spending much of the game defending.
