Getafe are expected to line up in their usual 4-4-2, a shape that morphs into a rigid 4-4-2 mid-block when out of possession. Bordalas will demand his midfield four stay compact, cutting off passing lanes into Malaga's front two. The full-backs, likely Andres Garcia and Johan Mojica, will push forward selectively, looking to overload the wide areas and deliver crosses for Enes Unal, who could be introduced in the final third. Getafe's game plan is simple: soak up pressure, win the second balls, and strike on the counter or from set pieces.

Malaga, under Juan Funes, are predicted to set up in a 4-4-2 as well, but their approach is more proactive. They will try to press high and disrupt Getafe's rhythm, with Orel Mangala central to dictating tempo from deep. However, that aggressive posture leaves them exposed to quick transitions. Getafe's midfield dogfight will be key: if they can win the battle in the centre, Malaga's narrow diamond will be stretched, and the home side's wide runners will find space. Set pieces are another weapon for Getafe, who are traditionally strong in the air.

The game state will likely see Getafe happy to cede possession and hit on the break. Malaga will have spells of the ball, but they lack the cutting edge to break down a well-drilled low block. The longer the game goes without a goal, the more frustrated Malaga will become, and that is when Getafe pounce.