Expect Athlone to line up in their usual 4-2-3-1, with the full-backs pushing high and the wide players cutting inside to overload the half-spaces. The double pivot will sit deep to screen the back four, but the real threat comes from the number ten — he’s the one who knifes through the lines and links midfield to attack. Longford will likely mirror that shape, but they’ll drop into a low block when out of possession. They’re happy to let Athlone have the ball, soak up pressure, and then hit on the counter through their pacey wide men. That’s the classic away-day blueprint, and it’s worked for them before.

The midfield dogfight will decide this. Athlone’s pivot vs Longford’s two central midfielders — whoever wins that battle controls the tempo. If Athlone can move the ball quickly and avoid getting bogged down, they’ll create chances. If Longford can slow it down, break up play, and force errors, they’ll nick something. Set pieces could be a factor too — both teams have height at the back, and a corner or free-kick could easily be the difference in a game this tight. We see Athlone dominating possession but needing to be patient against that low block. The key is the first goal — if they get it, Longford have to open up, and that’s when Athlone can pick them off.