Elversberg's runners and Mainz's crossing game attack different parts of the opposing defence. Their meeting should be shaped by the space left after possession changes. Villarreal against Espanyol presents another supply contest, with home pressure meeting a compact visiting block and selective forward releases.
Petkov and Krattenmacher give Elversberg a direct route behind advancing wide players, with Mokwa and supporting runners attacking the next delivery. Mainz have a separate connection through Caci, Becker and Tietz, demonstrated by their crossing goals against Bremen. Fischer's current concern about protection behind attacks fits the spaces Elversberg seek.
Amiri's involvement is uncertain, but Caci's delivery remains available and Nebel completed a substantial cup appearance. Elversberg retain their main forward alternatives despite Zimmerschied's absence; Günther and Pinckert are doubts after completing the cup match. I expect attacks through the flanks to create further openings as either team moves forward after a goal. That's why I'm backing goals in Elversberg against Mainz.
Villarreal can press for an early recovery, deliver from wide positions and release Moleiro into a forward connection. Elche showed the quality of their early chances, while the Valencia match supplied distinct examples through Cardona's delivery and Moleiro's pass to Mikautadze. Espanyol's defensive core now comes off extra-time cup work, and Sergio Garcia has acknowledged limited preparation.
Gueye is suspended and Saliba and Akhomach are absent, leaving different midfield responsibilities for Villarreal. Their cup allocation nevertheless preserved several senior attacking options, while Espanyol's Cabrera and El Hilali played the full extra-time match. I expect renewed home entries and fresh attacking options to matter as the game progresses. That's why I'm siding with Villarreal to win.
