Messi Effect: Eldense Wins Following the Argentine's Arrival
Eldense defeated Real Oviedo 4-1 just one day after announcing Lionel Messi's arrival as the club's new owner.
The new era could hardly have started any better for Eldense. Just hours after officially announcing Lionel Messi as its new owner, the Alicante-based club secured one of its most emphatic victories of the season.
Eldense defeated Real Oviedo 4-1 at the Nuevo Pepico Amat, securing its second victory of the campaign and its first at home. The result also came after a difficult start to the season, with the team having won only one of its opening seven matches in LaLiga Hypermotion.
And it could hardly have started worse. Alberto Reina gave Real Oviedo the lead after just a few seconds, but Javi Calleja's side responded emphatically after the break.
A Comeback to Kick Off the New Era
Roberto López equalized from the penalty spot in the 56th minute before Fidel converted another penalty 10 minutes later to complete the comeback.
With Real Oviedo desperately searching for an equalizer, Adu Ares and Rastrojo struck to extend the advantage and turn the night into a 4-1 rout. The result also marked Javi Calleja's first victory since taking charge of the club.
From afar, Messi was keeping a close eye on his new team. The Argentine followed the match and shared an image on social media showing himself watching the game, just one day after the deal was made public.
Messi Begins a New Project in Spain
Eldense announced the acquisition of the club by Lionel Messi, although the transaction is still subject to the corresponding authorization from Spain's Higher Sports Council. The club, founded in 1921, explained that the project will have a long-term vision focused on sporting, institutional, and social growth.
For Messi, it is also his second venture as a club owner in Spanish soccer in 2026 after previously acquiring UE Cornellà.
The sporting challenge remains considerable. One victory does not completely transform an inconsistent start to the season, but the 4-1 win over Real Oviedo provides an immediate boost for a team that desperately needed a response and is now beginning a completely different chapter under the ownership of one of the greatest players in soccer history.
The Messi Effect Begins With a Rout
- Eldense defeated Real Oviedo 4-1 just one day after Lionel Messi was announced as the club's new owner.
- It was the club's second victory of the season and its first at home, as well as Javi Calleja's first win as head coach.
- Messi watched the first match of his new era from afar, while the acquisition remains subject to authorization from Spain's Higher Sports Council.
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