As a data analyst who’s bet on more games than I’ve had hot dinners, I’m calling it: this isn’t just a mismatch. LAFC’s star power and home-field advantage? Overrated. Esperance, despite their quiet name and low profile, have history, resilience, and a pattern of defying expectations — especially in high-stakes tournaments. Let’s break down why the odds are misreading the real story behind this clash. Spoiler: they’re underestimating North African grit.