On Tuesday, the Czech Republic will face off against Denmark in Prague, with a coveted place in the 2026 World Cup at stake. This high-stakes match promises to be a gripping affair, as both teams vie for a spot on the world stage.
The Czechs reached this crucial playoff after a hard-fought victory against the Republic of Ireland last week, a match that saw them push through extra time and ultimately secure their win via a penalty shootout. Meanwhile, Denmark advanced with ease, convincingly dispatching North Macedonia in their semi-final clash.
Match Preview
The Czech Republic returns to the pitch in their quest for a World Cup berth, aiming for their first appearance since 2006. Having missed the last four tournaments, the team seeks redemption and revival on the international stage.
Under the guidance of new manager Miroslav Koubek, who took the reins in December, the Czechs enjoyed a successful qualifying campaign, finishing second in Group L with 16 points from eight matches. Their journey was highlighted by a spectacular 6-0 rout of Gibraltar in the final qualifying round, setting the stage for the playoff showdown against Ireland.
In that evenly matched semi-final, the Czechs demonstrated resilience. After twice trailing, they equalized late in the game through Ladislav Krejci, securing their place in the shootout where goalkeeper Matej Kovar emerged as the hero with two crucial saves, while Jan Kliment sealed the victory with the decisive penalty.
Now, back on home turf, the Czechs are eager to extend their winning streak to four matches across all competitions, setting their sights on a return to the World Cup group stage after a nearly two-decade absence.
© Iconsport / Football images
However, they will need to overcome a formidable foe in Denmark, who arrive in Prague brimming with confidence after their impressive semi-final win.
The Danes, looking for their third consecutive World Cup appearance, were edged out for automatic qualification by Scotland in Group C. With 11 points from six matches, they secured a playoff place after a decisive defeat against Scotland, paving the way for their impactful semi-final display against North Macedonia.
That match showcased their attacking prowess, with Mikkel Damsgaard breaking the deadlock before Gustav Isaksen added two more goals in quick succession, capping the performance with a fourth from Christian Norgaard. Now, they aim to build on that dominant performance and clinch their World Cup spot.
Czech Republic World Cup Qualifying – Europe form:
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Czech Republic form (all competitions):
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Denmark World Cup Qualifying – Europe form:
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Team News
© Iconsport / Football images
The Czech lineup is likely to mirror the one that fought hard against the Republic of Ireland. Notable players such as Tomas Soucek, Michal Sadilek, Stepan Chaloupek, and Jan Kliment are all vying for starting roles after coming off the bench last week. While key winger Vaclav Cerny misses out due to injury, Pavel Sulc, who has enjoyed a successful season with Lyon, emerges as a significant threat in attack.
Defensively, Wolverhampton’s Krejci will lead the back line as captain, and Patrik Schick stands as their main offensive weapon, boasting 25 international goals in just 51 appearances.
Denmark’s squad may see little change from their last outing, despite several key injuries. Kasper Schmeichel, Andreas Christensen, Rasmus Kristensen, Patrick Dorgu, and Jannik Vestergaard are all sidelined. However, the return of defender Joachim Andersen, who missed the semi-final due to suspension, could bolster their defense. Up front, Napoli’s Rasmus Hojlund will spearhead the attack, supported by Damsgaard and Isaksen, the latter of whom netted twice in their previous match.
Czech Republic possible starting lineup:
Kovar; Holes, Krejci, Hranac; Coufal, Provod, Soucek, Jurasek; Schick, Chory, Sulc
Denmark possible starting lineup:
Hermansen; Bah, Norgaard, Andersen, Maehle; Hjumland, Hojbjerg; Isaksen, Froholdt, Damsgaard; Hojlund
Our Prediction: Czech Republic 1-2 Denmark
Given the venue and recent performances, we anticipate a closely contested match. However, Denmark’s depth and quality may prove decisive as they chase a third consecutive World Cup appearance, edging the Czechs in what promises to be an exhilarating encounter.
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