Real Sociedad should control long stretches of possession, while Rayo can make the first pass uncomfortable with a fresh press. The key contest is whether those recoveries reach De Frutos before Sociedad's cover resets. Santa Clara and Gil Vicente look set for a tighter midfield game, with few clean final contacts if the first forward pass is stopped. Wide deliveries and the next touch inside the box should decide where that match opens up.
Sociedad have reached goal-bound shots through Kubo, Sučić and their wide service, yet Rayo have shown two separate routes to De Frutos. Rayo's Rațiu connection remains intact; Ciss has been reported back, while García and Valentín are unavailable. Sociedad arrive after a short European turnaround with Sarr injured and Oyarzabal's condition in question. I expect Rayo's press and direct outlet to keep answering Sociedad's territory, so I'm siding with Rayo Vallecano.
Gil's Esgaio-led central defence recently held Vitória to little clear shooting, while Santa Clara's latest clean sheet required a busy Neneca despite the final score. Romão supplied Santa Clara's latest wide goals but left injured and is doubtful; Gil's Espigares has a newer return report. Gil can stay compact, find Prioste or Santi with the first pass and work a low cross or later box entry. That balance makes me side with Gil Vicente.
