This article is part of the Guardian’s World Cup expert network, showcasing insights leading up to the tournament that begins on June 11th, featuring contributions from news organizations across the 48 qualifying nations.
Czech Republic’s Strategy Ahead of the World Cup
Historically, the Czech national team has thrived in the underdog role, yet their current lineup faces limited resources. The team has struggled with technical skills, often relying on physicality, hard work, aggression, and set-piece tactics. This reliance was evident during their World Cup play-offs against the Republic of Ireland and Denmark, both of which concluded with penalty shootouts after intensely fought matches.
Long-distance travel poses challenges during the World Cup, particularly concerning time zone adjustments and altitude. The Czechs will have to adapt quickly to play two games in Mexico, where the altitude reaches approximately 2,000 meters, especially since their training base will be in Dallas.
The team’s core comprises seasoned professionals, with Tomas Soucek continuing to stand out in midfield, despite having been relieved of his captaincy after a lack of fan appreciation following a dominant win over Gibraltar. The Football Association commented on the situation, stating that the players should offer thanks to their loyal supporters instead of facing dissent.
Czech Republic: Group A Fixtures
June 11 vs. South Korea, Guadalajara (8 PM local time, 3 AM BST June 12)
June 18 vs. South Africa, Atlanta (12 PM local time, 5 PM BST)
June 24 vs. Mexico, Mexico City (7 PM local time, 2 AM BST June 25)
Ladislav Kureishi, a Wolves center-back known for his hard-tackling style, has taken the captain’s armband and has led the side by scoring crucial goals in both play-off matches. Attack will likely center around Patrik Schick, whose fitness has reportedly improved as the season progresses at Bayer Leverkusen.
A humiliating loss to the Faroe Islands during qualifying resulted in the dismissal of coach Ivan Hasek. However, since Miroslav Koubek’s appointment, there has been a noticeable turnaround in the team’s performance.
The anticipated starting lineup will feature players from prominent leagues such as the Premier League, alongside rising talents from the Czech league. Competition is intense for the goalkeeper position, with Matej Kovar helping PSV Eindhoven secure the Dutch title. His impressive play included saving two penalties in the World Cup play-offs, although he is challenged by Braga’s Lukas Hornicek. Players like Lukas Provod and Pavel Suruk will need to invigorate the offense as the team aims to advance beyond the group stage.
Miroslav Koubek: The Visionary at the Helm
Miroslav Koubek was poised to become the oldest World Cup manager at age 74 until Dick Advocaat, who is four years his senior, returned to lead Curaçao. Koubek has finally reached his coaching peak, transitioning from an insurance broker to a respected figure in Czech football. His rise through the ranks involved coaching at lower league levels, eventually managing top clubs like Slavia Prague and Viktoria Plzen, with whom he won the league title in 2015.
Known for maximizing the potential of limited resources, Koubek incorporates data analytics into his coaching methods and enjoys respect from players, fans, and the media. His dry sense of humor adds a refreshing element to press conferences, making them more engaging than typical exchanges.
Patrik Schick: The Key Player
Patrik Schick stands out as the Czech Republic’s most significant player, continuing to be a vital goal-scoring asset for the team. The Bayer Leverkusen striker’s fluid movement and exceptional finishing ability allow him to influence matches substantially. Although he has faced injury setbacks, his prowess is indisputable. Schick gained widespread attention during Euro 2020, netting five goals, including a remarkable strike from the halfway line against Scotland. As the cornerstone of the Czech offense, his 16 goals in the 2025-26 Bundesliga season reflect his outstanding form and impact.
Emerging Talent: Pavel Suluk
Pavel Suluk is emerging as a leading figure in a new generation of Czech football. After making his mark at Viktoria Plzen, this attacking midfielder joined Lyon last year, delivering an impressive debut season in Ligue 1. Suluk provides a blend of unpredictability and technical skill, excelling at scoring, creating opportunities, and executing aggressive pressing. Though relatively unknown outside the Czech Republic and France, his performances could elevate his profile on the international stage during the World Cup.
Thomas Halls: The Backbone of the Team
33-year-old Thomas Halls may not capture headlines, but he holds immense respect from coaches and teammates. Playing for Slavia Prague, Halls is an intelligent, disciplined player who gracefully transitions between midfield and defense. His contributions often go unnoticed but are crucial for the team’s success. With a reputation for maintaining structure under pressure and winning second balls, he played an essential role in the team’s performance at Euro 2020, during which he kept opposing stars in check and even scored in the Round of 16 against the Netherlands.
Fan Culture and Expectation
Czech supporters may not travel in droves like fans from other nations, such as England or Argentina, but those who attend are typically vibrant, passionate, and supportive. With simple chants like “Cesi do toho!” (“Come on, Czech!”), they cultivate a friendly atmosphere characterized by self-deprecating humor. In national matches, acts of violence are rare, and the journey to the World Cup itself is seen as an achievement worthy of celebration. However, the financial burden of travel to the United States or Mexico may limit attendance.
U.S.-Czech Relations: A Nuanced Perspective
Czech society has historically been among the most pro-American in Central Europe, rooted in the connections established since the Velvet Revolution in 1989 and NATO’s expansion a decade later. While current Czech President Petr Pavel has been openly critical of Donald Trump, labeling him a “really unpleasant person,” it is anticipated that fans visiting the United States will prioritize logistical concerns over political tensions as they prepare for the World Cup.
