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Miroslav Koubek
9
Runners-up (1934, 1962)
Czechia survived two pressure-filled UEFA play-off ties to return to the World Cup and now carry a disciplined, awkward profile into Group A.
Read full team guide →Pick every match, earn points, and challenge your friends. Predictions lock June 11.
Czechia are back at the World Cup for the first time since 2006. FIFA's official qualification report says they booked their place by beating Denmark on penalties in Prague after also surviving a shoot-out against the Republic of Ireland in the semi-final. That route tells you a lot about this team already: resilient, organised and comfortable in tense matches.
Midfielder
West Ham United
Soucek is still the midfield reference point and the player who gives Czechia their edge in aerial duels, set pieces and late box entries.
Forward
Bayer Leverkusen
Schick remains the side's most recognisable scorer and the forward best equipped to finish the limited chances tournament matches often offer.
Defender
West Ham United
Coufal gives Czechia leadership and crossing quality from wide areas, particularly important in direct phases of play.
Forward
Hoffenheim
Hlozek adds mobility and unpredictability around Schick, giving the attack a different dimension when the game opens up.
Goalkeeper
Bayer Leverkusen
Kovar gives Czechia a younger modern goalkeeper profile, useful in a side that expects to spend stretches under pressure.
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