The report says the Czech Republic are expected to retain their 3-4-2-1 system and make few changes to the side that started the opening match. That would place Matej Kovar behind a back three of Robin Hranac, Stepan Chaloupek and Ladislav Krejci.
Vladimir Coufal and Jaroslav Zeleny are expected to continue as wing-backs, with Tomas Soucek and Alexandr Sojka forming the central midfield pairing. The selection would reflect Koubek’s apparent belief that the defeat was caused more by mistakes than by a complete tactical failure.
That is a significant call. A second consecutive setback would increase scrutiny, but wholesale changes could just as easily remove the rhythm the team needs.
Krejci remains one of the most important figures in the expected lineup. The defender reportedly gave the Czech Republic the lead against South Korea with a headed finish, underlining his value at set pieces and in attacking phases.
His role in the back three also allows the system to become more aggressive when the wing-backs push forward. Against South Africa, his positioning and aerial presence could again prove decisive at both ends of the pitch.
Patrik Schick is expected to lead the line, supported by Lukas Provod and Pavel Sulc. The attacking trio will need better service and sharper decision-making if the Czech Republic are to turn promising moments into a result.
The next test will reveal whether Koubek’s faith in continuity was justified. A composed performance against South Africa would strengthen the case for stability; another defeat could force the manager to reconsider both his shape and selection.