Expect Sevilla to line up in their usual 4-2-3-1, with Ure as the focal point and the double pivot shielding a back four that will look to push up and compress the pitch. Plaza wants to control the middle, feed the wide players, and let Ure run in behind. Rayo will mirror that shape — 4-2-3-1 — with Batalla in goal and a back line that's missing key pieces. That's where the cracks show.

The midfield dogfight will be decided by who wins the second balls. Sevilla's pivot will look to screen and recycle, while Rayo's Unai López and Óscar Valentín will try to break lines with quick vertical passes. But without Luiz Felipe, Rayo's defensive line lacks that commanding presence. Sevilla's wide men — expect De Frutos and Isi to be occupied defensively — will find space in the half-spaces. Ure's movement is the key: he's a penalty-box predator, and Rayo's makeshift defense will struggle to track him.

Set pieces could be decisive. Sevilla have the height and the delivery to hurt Rayo from dead balls, especially with Lejeune — a towering presence — on the other side. But it's Sevilla who will smell blood from corners and free-kicks. The game state likely sees Sevilla dominate possession, Rayo sitting deeper and looking to hit on the break. If Sevilla score first, Rayo have to open up, and that's when the knives come out.