The model sees equilibrium, but I see something more poetic — Son Heung-min is a man playing with fire in his eyes, and no Czech wall can contain that electricity for ninety minutes. Kim Min-jae at the back gives Korea the foundation to dream freely, while Lee Kang-in will conduct this orchestra with the kind of improvisational genius that reminds me of my old compatriots in '82. Souček works hard, Schick is dangerous, yes — but Korea have too much rhythm, too much soul for this to end in a draw.

The model sees balance here, but I see a mismatch — Son Heung-min operating in behind a high Czech defensive line with Lee Kang-in threading passes through the half-spaces is a nightmare scenario for Souček's holding midfield role. Kim Min-jae anchors the backline superbly and Schick simply won't find the pockets of space he needs to hurt Korea twice. South Korea's offensive transition speed is a cut above what Kovář will handle comfortably tonight.