Czech Republic
The story
Qualified through a competitive confederation campaign with a balanced squad of European-based regulars and emerging domestic talent.
How they got here
Edged a UEFA play-off on penalties after finishing second in their group.
Expectations
Targeting a place in the knockout round and the chance to spoil a favorite's run.
Manager & key players
Group A
MexicoFIFA #14
South AfricaFIFA #50
South KoreaFIFA #22
Czech RepublicFIFA #43
Upcoming matches
Latest news & commentary
updated daily- Aug 1Build-up
Czech Republic take on a friendly opponent at home next week — a final dress rehearsal before the tournament window opens.
- Jul 30Injury
Squad announcement pending trained without restriction on Tuesday and is expected to be available for the opener.
- Jul 28Form
Czech Republic have lost just one of their last ten competitive fixtures heading into the tournament.
- Jul 26Camp
Czech Republic open their pre-tournament camp this week with a full-squad fitness block before the first friendly.
- Jul 24Press
Local press has zeroed in on midfield balance — depth behind the regular starters remains the open question.