The Daily Star Ireland
The Czech Republic vs Croatia World Championship 2026 qualifier promises to be one of the standout fixtures in Group L. The two European contenders meet at the Opus Arena, where tactical nous and experience collide. Both nations have made strong starts in the campaign, but contrasting styles and generational shifts could make this encounter far more unpredictable than their previous meeting in Osijek.
Match Preview
Croatia arrive with confidence after their emphatic 5–1 win over the Czech Republic in the reverse fixture earlier this year. That performance, led by Luka Modrić’s midfield mastery and Andrej Kramarić’s clinical finishing, reminded everyone of Croatia’s pedigree on the world stage. However, despite their dominance in attack, Zlatko Dalić’s men showed moments of defensive fragility, especially when pressed high and forced into turnovers. With several veterans still anchoring the team, managing intensity over 90 minutes could prove a challenge away from home.
The Czech Republic, meanwhile, have quietly put together an impressive qualifying campaign, topping the group with three straight wins over Montenegro, Gibraltar, and the Faroe Islands. Under Ivan Hašek, they have evolved into a compact, high-energy unit built around smart pressing and efficient transitions. The form of Patrik Schick and Antonín Barák has been particularly encouraging, while Tomáš Souček continues to provide leadership and steel in midfield. Having failed to reach the World Cup since 2006, the hosts are determined to prove they can compete with Europe’s elite once again.
Team Form & Recent Results
Czech Republic (Last 5 Matches): W W W L W
The Czechs have been clinical against lower-ranked sides, conceding just twice in their last five games. Their home record remains solid, with four clean sheets in their last six fixtures in Prague and Plzeň.
Croatia (Last 5 Matches): W W D L W
Croatia’s form has been strong overall, though inconsistency in away performances remains a concern. Their defensive structure has allowed goals in four of their last five games across all competitions.
Head-to-Head Record
Croatia dominate the head-to-head, winning five of the last six meetings, including the recent 5–1 rout. However, the Czech Republic are unbeaten in their last three home qualifiers and historically perform well in front of their fans. The last time these sides met on Czech soil ended in a 1–1 draw, with Schick’s penalty earning a point at Euro 2020.
Lineups, Injuries & Suspensions
Czech Republic (4-2-3-1 expected): Staněk – Coufal, Brabec, Krejčí, Jurásek – Souček, Sadílek – Barák, Hložek, Lingr – Schick
Unavailable: Král (injured), Zima (doubtful).
Croatia (4-3-3 expected): Livaković – Juranović, Gvardiol, Šutalo, Sosa – Brozović, Modrić, Kovačić – Majer, Kramarić, Petković
Unavailable: Perišić (injured), Vlašić (fitness).
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
The Czech Republic’s tactical setup relies heavily on vertical transitions and set pieces. Souček and Barák are key to controlling tempo and supplying Schick, whose aerial ability and positioning will test Croatia’s backline. Expect the hosts to press high early on and use overlapping full-backs to stretch Croatia’s defensive block.
Croatia, by contrast, will look to dictate play through their world-class midfield trio of Modrić, Kovačić, and Brozović. Their ability to retain possession and create passing triangles under pressure remains elite. Kramarić’s movement between the lines could be the deciding factor, while Gvardiol’s distribution from the back will be crucial in bypassing the Czech press.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
- Full-Time Result: Czech Republic (3.40) | Draw (3.10) | Croatia (2.10)
- Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Under 2.5 (1.65)
- Both Teams to Score: Yes (1.90)
Betting Insights:
- 11 of the Czech Republic’s last 15 games have produced under 2.5 goals.
- Croatia have seen under 2.5 goals in 10 of their last 11 away fixtures.
- Both teams have scored in just one of their last four head-to-head encounters.
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Kickoff: October 10, 2025 – 20:45 CET
Venue: Opus Arena, Czech Republic
Broadcast: ČT Sport (Czech Republic), HRT 2 (Croatia), UEFA.tv
Prediction: Czech Republic vs Croatia, World Championship 2026 Qualifiers
This clash should be far closer than their previous meeting. The Czech Republic’s energy and home advantage will challenge Croatia’s experienced core, but the visitors’ composure and technical superiority may ultimately tip the balance. Expect a cautious first half followed by a more open second period, where Croatia’s class in tight spaces could prove decisive.
Final Prediction: Czech Republic 0–1 Croatia
Best Bet: Under 2.5 Goals
Alternative Value: Croatia to Win & Both Teams Not to Score
