Levante's high press and Atlético's passing through midfield should make the first exchange lively. Atlético have the stronger route into the box, but their recent entries have not consistently produced a second goal. Levante have shown they can answer an opening concession with another wide attack.
Brugué and Thiago Fernández can turn a regain into a cross, while Baena and Grimaldo can find Álvarez if Atlético beat that first press. Koke and Cardoso are absent from Atlético's current squad and also missed the prior match; Hjulmand played then and offers an established replacement. Bardeli had already missed Levante's last two, and Requena and Olasagasti played in his place; Dela is reported fit but has not yet made a confirmed return. Atlético's recent wins have required a decisive finish rather than wave after wave of goals, while Levante's wide supply gives them a way back after the first exchange. That's why I'm siding with Levante to stay close.
