Overview
The Croatian team just had an impressive 7-0 victory over Gibraltar. Despite being a much inferior opponent in class, winning overwhelmingly like Croatia is not easy.
That is a strong affirmation of Croatia's class in Group L of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where they are considered the strongest team.
In the upcoming match, Croatia will meet the Czech Republic, the second most valuable team in Group L. The Czech Republic is currently leading the group with 3 consecutive wins.
They just won 2-0 against Montenegro in their most recent match. Despite their good form, none of their opponents have met them in the Croatia league. Moreover, in the upcoming match, the Czech Republic will also be the away team.
Although Croatia is no longer at its peak as in 2018-2022, they are still one of the top teams in Europe. With home advantage, Croatia will be able to end the Czech Republic's winning streak in Group L.
In the match against Gibraltar, Croatia's pillars Luka Modric, Pasalic and Kramaric did not start. Therefore, they will be able to match the Czech Republic.
Croatia and the Czech Republic have met four times in their history. Their last two meetings have both been at EURO, with the pair drawing 2-2 in 2016 and 1-1 in 2021. Overall, Croatia are still unbeaten with 1 win and 3 draws.
Personnel situation
Modric is likely to start alongside lovro Majer in the center of Croatia's midfield. Ante Budimir - who has scored 24 goals in 42 matches for Osasuna this season - will continue to appear in attack.
On the other side of the front line, Patrik Schick has scored 4 goals in the last 3 qualifiers and will definitely start against Croatia.
Adam Hlozek is also doubtful to feature due to an injury in last week's win over Montenegro. Lukas Provod could be the replacement.
Expected lineup:
Croatia: Livakovic, Stanisic, Caleta-Car, Sutalo, Gvardiol, Modric, Majer, Baturina, Pasalic, Perisic, budimir.
Czech Republic: Kovar, Coufal, Holes, Krejci, Zeleny, Soucek, Cerv, Cerny, Sulc, Provod, Schick.
The match between Croatia and the Czech Republic takes place at 1:45 am on June 10 (Vietnam time).
