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Predicted Lineups:
Luton Town – 433/4231
Keeley; Makosso, McGuinness, Naismith, Lonwijk/Lockyer; Odoffin/Walsh; Saville, Clark; Alli, Wells, Jones
AFC Wimbledon – 352
Bishop; Johnson, Lewis, Harbottle/Ogundere; Tilley, Reeves, Smith, Hutchinson, Neufville; Stevens, Browne
What to watch for:
Luton Town:
- Returning to League One with ambition, looking to challenge immediately.
- Strong home record at Kenilworth Road, where the atmosphere often gives them an edge.
- Expect aggressive pressing and fast transitions from midfield to the wings.
AFC Wimbledon:
- Riding momentum from promotion and used to punching above their weight.
- Their history shows they can cause upsets in Luton, especially in tight or decisive matches.
- Likely to set up compactly and look to hit on set‑pieces or counterattacks.
Key Storylines:
- Opening-season tone: a win sets confidence for either club’s ambitions.
- Tactical match-up: Luton’s intensity vs. Wimbledon’s structured resilience.
- History rematch: echoes of the dramatic playoff final, even though they’ve rarely met since.
