The Czech Republic is returning to the World Cup for the first time in 20 years
The Czech Republic have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, securing their place in the tournament for the first time in 20 years. The team was not considered a favourite in the qualifiers, but managed to get through the play-offs and earn the right to play at the world’s premier football tournament.
After being appointed head coach at the end of the year, Miroslav Koubek changed the team’s tactical formation. Instead of a 4-2-3-1 formation, the team began using a more flexible 3-4-2-1 system, which often transforms into a five-man defence during matches. Wingers Vladimír Čoufal and Jaroslav Zelený play a key role in this setup.
The current Czech national team is not considered one of the strongest in its history, but the side stands out for its organisation and dedication. This was confirmed in the play-offs, where the Czechs managed to secure victories over the Republic of Ireland and Denmark in penalty shoot-outs.
The team’s physical strength remains its strong point. The Czechs have a powerful squad, work hard off the ball and are dangerous from set pieces. In the European qualifiers, no other team scored more goals from set-pieces (excluding penalties) than the Czech Republic, who found the net ten times in this manner.
Tomáš Souček stands out among the team’s leaders. Although he is no longer the national team captain, the midfielder remains one of the key players and the highest-scoring Czech player in the history of the English Premier League.
Pavel Šulc could play an important role in the tournament. The reigning Czech Footballer of the Year enjoyed a successful season with Lyon and became one of the team’s top scorers in Ligue 1, despite often coming on as a substitute.
Patrik Schick remains the main striking force in attack. The Bayer Leverkusen forward was one of the top scorers at Euro 2020 and finished the club season in fine form. He was the Czech national team’s top scorer during the qualifying campaign.
At the same time, the team lacks creativity in attack. Apart from Pavel Schulz, there are few players in the squad capable of creating chances on a regular basis. Weather conditions in Mexico could pose an additional challenge, as the Czechs will have to play matches at high altitude. This could affect the team’s physical stamina.
Miroslav Koubek, aged 74, will be one of the oldest managers in World Cup history. He is best known for his work with Viktoria Plzeň and has never managed a professional club outside the Czech Republic during his career.
For the modern Czech Republic, this is only their second appearance at the World Cup since gaining independence in 1993. The last time the team played at the World Cup was in Germany in 2006.
At the 2026 World Cup, the Czech Republic will compete in Group A alongside Mexico, South Korea and South Africa. For a whole generation of Czech fans, this will be their first chance to see their team at the World Cup.
