Czechia admits mistakes at the World Cup

General manager of the Czechia national team Pavel Nedved openly admitted that they faltered at WC 2026 and that the players lacked laughter. In an interview with Sport newspaper he said he considered the participation a success, but “I said things that sounded different.” League standing: 4th in FIFA World Cup 2026, 1 pts, 0W-1D-2L from 3 games, recent form LDL.

What caused the failure?

Nedved explained that the squad was tired, long travel and climate conditions played a role. Coach Miroslav Koubek was criticised for overly intense training sessions, yet Nedved admitted he didn’t apply enough pressure for change. “Some players needed more training, others less – we didn’t solve that,” he said. Goals this season: 2 scored, 6 conceded (-4 goal difference).

What about the coach?

After the elimination Koubek resigned and Nedved hinted the new head coach should be found abroad. “A foreign path is best this time because I don’t see anyone in Czechia who could do it,” he stated. The team is gearing up for next fixture: vs Croatia (at home, 2026-09-26), a chance to show the adjustments.

What lies ahead for Czechia?

Nedved dismissed rumours of locker‑room fights and stressed that criticism is justified but must be paired with solutions. “We have lacked quality wingers for twenty years, we know that,” he noted. Still, he believes a coaching change and a more individual approach could boost their chances in the Nations League, where strong opponents await. Last result: Czechia 1-0 San Marino (2025-11-13) and Recent form (last 2): 1W-1D-0L (WD, most recent first); unbeaten in the last 2.