Both sides are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 — a shape that promises a proper midfield dogfight. Watford will likely have Bachmann in goal behind a back four of Ngakia, Pollock, Keben, and Bola, with a double pivot of Bove and Kyprianou shielding the defence. That's a solid base, but the creative burden falls on Nabizada and Chikovani in the wide areas, with Kjerrumgaard leading the line. They'll look to spring on the counter, using the pace of their wide runners to knife through Southampton's lines. Southampton, under their usual 4-2-3-1, will dominate possession — that's their DNA. They'll keep the ball, move it quickly through the thirds, and force Watford to defend deep. The key battle will be in the half-spaces: Southampton's attacking midfielder will drift between the lines, pulling Pollock and Keben out of shape. If Watford's double pivot doesn't track those runners, the Saints will carve them open. Set pieces could be a leveller — Watford have the height in Keben and Pollock, so they'll fancy their chances from corners. But Southampton's technical superiority in open play should tell over 90 minutes.