Czech Republic
The Czech Republic come into this with a single point and only a victory keeps them genuinely alive, so Ivan Hasek has no choice but to chase the game. In my opinion their best route is the counter through Patrik Schick and Adam Hlozek, the pairing that carries almost all of their goal-scoring threat. The worry is that committing forward against Mexico leaves space behind a back line that has already conceded three times. I expect plenty of Czech possession through the likes of Krejcik and Sadilek, but a lack of control once the game opens up.
Predicted Lineup: Kovar; Holes, Hranac, Krejci; Sadilek, Cerv, Darida, Coufal; Hlozek, Schick, Sojka.
Mexico
Mexico have been ruthless and efficient so far, beating South Africa and then edging South Korea through Luis Romo to take maximum points. Javier Aguirre is likely to freshen his side knowing a draw is enough to top the group, but the spine of Edson Alvarez and the threat of Raul Jimenez and Julian Quinones keep real quality on the pitch. From my point of view they will be content to control possession, manage the tempo, and punish the Czechs on the break. With qualification already secured there is little pressure on them and that calm should serve them well.
Predicted Lineup: Rangel; J. Sanchez, Alvarez, Vasquez, Gallardo; Lira; Romo, Gutierrez; Quinones, Jimenez, Alvarado.
