Czechia is searching for a new head coach and bettors are already backing Luboš Kozel and Radoslav Kováč. Odds for Kozel sit around 4:1 to 5:1, while Kováč is at 5:1, showing Czech bookmakers favor domestic candidates.

Who are the main candidates?

Luboš Kozel, successful coach of Jablonec, consistently delivers solid results outside the league's elite. Radoslav Kováč, former Liberec manager, is known as a fair but tough coach with high standards for player morale. Fortuna expert Roman Kovařík highlighted Kováč's authority stemming from a strong playing career and national team achievements. Another name in the mix is Michal Bílek, who leads the Czech U‑21 side and previously coached Kazakhstan.

Why are bettors favoring home‑grown coaches?

Allwyn's betting manager Lukáš Nepovím said that despite rumors of a foreign appointment, bettors trust a Czech coach will take the helm. The most wagers target Kováč, but according to Tipsport spokesperson Jiří Hadrava, Kozel's odds are slightly more attractive. German Jürgen Klinsmann also appears in the market, but with odds of 20:1 to 40:1 he is seen as an outsider.

What are the chances for foreign names?

Fortuna also lists Cypriot coach Elias Charalambous and Danish manager Thomas Thomasberg as possible options. Both have international experience, yet they haven't sparked the same betting interest as the domestic hopefuls. Klinsmann's odds suggest he remains a popular name but with limited realistic chances.

How does this affect the upcoming match?

Czechia currently sits 4th in the FIFA World Cup 2026 group, holding 1 point after three games (0W‑1D‑2L) and its last result was a 1‑0 win over San Marino on 13 Nov 2025. The side is unbeaten in its last two outings (1W‑1D‑0L). The next fixture is a home clash against Croatia on 26 Sep 2026, which will be the first test for any new coach if appointed.