Mexico have already secured the top position in Group A — the question now is whether the Czech Republic can join them in the next round.

Group A action concludes on Wednesday, with the Czech Republic in urgent need of a positive result to progress to the knockout stage alongside the host nation, Mexico.

The scenario is straightforward for Mexico: they are confirmed as group winners and have guaranteed their place in the next phase.

For the Czech Republic, however, the situation is far more complex. To finish second, they must defeat Mexico and hope that South Africa overcome South Korea in the other fixture, which kicks off at 7pm local time (2am UK time). However, the South African victory cannot be by a large margin — otherwise, the Czechs risk losing out on goal difference or goals scored.

Alternatively, the more realistic path for the Czech side — at least on paper — is to beat Mexico and aim for qualification as one of the eight best third-placed teams in the round of 32.

In any case, nothing short of a win at Mexico City’s iconic Estadio Azteca is likely to suffice for Miroslav Koubek’s squad. Achieving that against the co-hosts, who have been in commanding form since the tournament began, will be a formidable challenge.

Czechia’s main weakness so far has been their failure to protect leads. They took the advantage against both South Korea and South Africa — losing 2-1 in the first and conceding a late equaliser to Teboho Mokoena’s penalty after leading for 77 minutes in the second.

With the home supporters in full voice, the mental test awaiting the Czechs at the Azteca could be even tougher this time around.

One potential advantage for the visitors is that Mexico, already assured of progression, may decide to rest key players if head coach Javier Aguirre opts to rotate his squad.

South Korea cannot overtake Mexico at the top even if they finish level on points, as the head-to-head record takes priority over goal difference.

However, Aguirre might prefer to keep his side’s rhythm intact heading into the knockout rounds — and the passion displayed in Mexico’s goal celebrations has shown just how much playing in front of their home fans means to them during this World Cup.

Mexico have looked composed and convincing so far, while the Czech Republic have yet to find their best form.

Given the circumstances, the odds appear stacked against the Czech Republic — and it seems likely they will exit the tournament earlier than they had planned.

Predicted Score: Czech Republic 1-2 Mexico