The European side suffered a 2-1 loss to South Korea in their opening match, leaving them without a point heading into Thursday's encounter in Atlanta. South Africa also arrive in a similar position after falling 2-0 to Mexico, meaning the fixture could prove decisive in shaping both nations' hopes of reaching the Round of 32.

With little margin for error, Coufal made clear that Czechia's focus must first and foremost be on fixing their own shortcomings rather than over-analysing their opponents.

"We have to look at ourselves, we have to improve our performance with the ball, we have to trust ourselves more," he said. "We have to be cohesive, responsible and give our lives to prevent the ball from getting into our goal."

The former West Ham United right-back admitted he had only briefly observed South Africa's opening match, but it was enough to convince him that Bafana Bafana will pose a serious test.

"It will definitely be a tough match," Coufal said. "I only saw a little bit of the opening match between South Africa and Mexico… then I went to sleep before our match, which I always do."

Czechia, coached by Miroslav Koubek, are expected to use Wednesday's final preparations in Atlanta to sharpen their defensive organisation after lapses cost them dearly against South Korea. Training is scheduled away from the main stadium as they attempt to reset before a fixture that could define their tournament.

Coufal also stressed the importance of improved control in possession, warning that his side cannot afford to repeat their sluggish build-up play.

Beyond Coufal's assessment, teammate Jaroslav Zeleny echoed the sense of urgency, describing the match as a "do-or-die" encounter for both sides.

"The opponent will be typologically different. Korea had a lot of speed, South Africa has more power players," Zeleny said. "I think the game will be a little more physical."

He added that both teams are effectively in a similar situation after failing to score in their opening matches, though he suggested Czechia may hold a slight psychological edge after at least finding the net against South Korea.

"At the moment they are in last place, and they will perceive it the same way we do. It will be either or," he said. "We need to prepare better than them and win the match."

With both Czechia and South Africa desperate for their first win of the tournament, Thursday's clash in Atlanta promises to be a high-stakes, physical battle that could determine who keeps their World Cup campaign alive. Kick-off is set for 18:00 South African time.

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