The Czech national team begins its new Nations League campaign with a home match against Croatia. Coach Santi Denia has opted for a 3-5-2 formation for Saturday's clash at Fortuna Arena.
Lineup and Tactics
Matěj Kovář gets the nod in goal. The back three consists of Martin Vitík, Robin Hranáč, and Ladislav Krejčí. Vladimír Coufal and Adam Karabec will operate as wing-backs, tasked with supplying the attack. The midfield trio is Alex Král, Lukáš Červ, and Michal Sadílek. The main attacking pair is Pavel Šulc and Adam Hložek. "Denia’s men will be looking to use this home ground advantage to their advantage," the coach said.
This lineup reflects several changes in the squad following retirements and injuries. After Patrik Schick's international retirement and the absence of David Zima and Lukáš Provod, new faces have gotten their chance. Denia called up Vitík and Václav Sejk as replacements.
The Opponent and History
Croatia arrives in Prague under Slaven Bilić and with legend Luka Modrić in the lineup. They are an unfavourable opponent for the Czech side. In five previous meetings, the Czech team has never won, recording three draws and two defeats. The most recent, a heavy 5-1 loss, came in June 2025 during World Cup qualification.
Following an unsuccessful 2026 World Cup where the Czechs earned just one point and finished bottom of their group, the team needs a fresh start. Immediately after this duel, the Czech team faces another tough test, a home match against England on Tuesday, September 29.
First reported at Khel Now
