Expect Watford to line up in their usual 4-2-3-1, with Bachmann in goal behind a back four of Ngakia, Pollock, Keben, and Bola. The double pivot of Bove and Kyprianou will sit deep, trying to screen the defence and feed the likes of Chikovani and Bravo in the wide areas. Kjerrumgaard leads the line, but he'll be isolated if the midfield can't get up to support him. Dionisi's side will look to stay compact and hit on the break, but that's a dangerous game against a team with Southampton's technical edge.

Southampton are also expected in a 4-2-3-1, with Peretz between the sticks and a back four of Bree, Stephens, Harwood-Bellis, and Welington. Bragg and Downes anchor the midfield, giving the likes of Matsuki and Scienza license to roam in the half-spaces. Brereton leads the attack, and he's the kind of runner who can knife through a defence that's still gelling. The Saints will dominate possession — they have the better ball players — and they'll look to stretch Watford wide, then cut inside. Set pieces are another weapon: Harwood-Bellis is a threat from corners, and Watford's makeshift centre-back pairing will be tested aerially.

The key battle will be in midfield. If Bove and Kyprianou can disrupt Southampton's rhythm, Watford have a chance. But if Bragg and Downes get on top, the Saints will control the tempo and starve the Hornets of the ball. Watford's best hope is to stay compact and hit on the counter, but that requires discipline for 90 minutes — and this team hasn't shown that consistency yet.