Many World Cup predictions still start with rankings and reputation. This tournament has already shown why that can be misleading. A stronger team can have the ball without creating enough danger, and that allows the underdog to pull the match into a lower-tempo contest.
Mexico vs South Korea is a clear example. Mexico have home energy and momentum, but South Korea bring transition speed and confidence from their opening comeback. If Mexico fail to score early, South Korea's counterattacks can become more dangerous with every passing phase.
The question is not only which team is stronger. The better question is which team can control the emotional rhythm once the match becomes tight.
