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Czech Republic begin fine-tuning for the World Cup

The Czech Republic enter this friendly with confidence after securing qualification for the World Cup for the first time since 2006. With their ticket already booked, the focus has now shifted toward sharpening tactical chemistry and building momentum ahead of the tournament.

The Czechs enjoyed a stable qualifying campaign, relying on discipline, structure, and consistent performances against teams of a similar level to finish second in their group. Although a surprise defeat to the Faroe Islands last October briefly raised eyebrows, it ultimately had little impact on their successful route to qualification.

Throughout the qualifiers, the Czech side balanced defensive solidity with clinical attacking play. Their World Cup dream was eventually sealed through the playoffs, where they narrowly overcame both Ireland and Denmark in dramatic penalty shootouts.

Kosovo narrowly miss out on a historic breakthrough

Kosovo, meanwhile, continue to establish themselves as one of Europe’s emerging national teams. Their qualification journey exceeded expectations, as they came remarkably close to reaching their first-ever World Cup.

The team impressed with its physical intensity, organization, and pragmatic style of play, collecting 11 points in a difficult group featuring Sweden, Slovenia, and Switzerland to unexpectedly finish second.

However, the playoffs ultimately proved one step too far. After edging Slovakia 4-3 in an entertaining semifinal, Franco Foda’s side narrowly fell to Turkey in the decisive match.

This friendly could allow Kosovo to play with more freedom, as the pressure of qualification is no longer present. Testing new tactical setups, integrating younger players, and matching the Czech Republic’s structure will likely be among their main priorities.

Probable lineups

Czech Republic: Kovář, Krejčí, Granáč, Haloupek, Zelený, Coufal, Darida, Souček, Schulz, Provod, Schick.

Kosovo: Murić, Hajdari, Hajrizi, Delova, Gallapeni, Vojvoda, Rexhbecaj, Hodža, Muslija, Muriqi, Asllani.

H2H & key stats

Czech Republic have qualified for the World Cup for the first time in two decades.

The hosts are unbeaten in their last four matches.

Czech Republic have not lost at home since September 2022.

Kosovo have suffered just one defeat in their last seven games.

Kosovo are currently on a three-match away winning streak.

The two sides met twice in 2019, each winning 2-1 on home soil.

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