The Czech Republic face Croatia in a crucial World Cup 2026 qualifying clash that could shape the race for top spot in Group L.
Ivan Hasek’s men have built strong momentum on home soil, going unbeaten in six straight matches since Euro 2024, and will be eager to avenge their heavy 5-1 defeat in Osijek earlier this year.
Croatia, meanwhile, have been near flawless since their Nations League exit to France in March. The 2018 World Cup finalists have won all four of their qualifiers so far, scoring freely and conceding just twice.
Zlatko Dalic’s side know another victory would tighten their grip on Group L, but the Czechs’ recent form at home makes this an intriguing battle between two sides with clear World Cup ambitions.
Czech Republic vs. Croatia: Who Will Win?
Croatia have looked a level above in World Cup qualifying so far, collecting 12 points from 12 and outscoring opponents 17-1. Zlatko Dalic’s side blend defensive discipline with attacking precision, and their midfield trio continues to dictate games with ease.
The Czech Republic have shown resilience at home, going unbeaten in six matches since Euro 2024, and their threat from set pieces could test the Croatian backline.
Narodak are capable of getting on the scoresheet, but Croatia’s balance and experience should see them through another tight encounter.
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Head-to-Head: Czech Republic vs. Croatia
- Croatia are unbeaten in their last five meetings with Czech Republic across all competitions (W2 D3).
- The reverse fixture in June ended in a dominant 5-1 win for Croatia in Osijek, with Andrej Kramaric netting twice.
- Across those five clashes, Croatia have scored 13 goals compared to Czech Republic’s 7.
- Croatia enter this contest on a six-match winning streak in all competitions, while Czechia are unbeaten in six home matches since Euro 2024.
Czech Republic vs. Croatia: Form Guide
Czech Republic – Last 5 Matches (All Competitions)
- Czech Republic 2-0 Montenegro (WCQ)
- Czech Republic 1-1 Saudi Arabia (Friendly)
- Czech Republic 3-1 Albania (WCQ)
- Czech Republic 0-1 Portugal (Friendly)
- Czech Republic 2-1 Georgia (WCQ)
Croatia – Last 5 Matches (All Competitions)
- Faroe Islands 0-1 Croatia (WCQ)
- Croatia 4-0 Montenegro (WCQ)
- Croatia 5-1 Czech Republic (WCQ)
- Croatia 2-1 France (Friendly)
- Croatia 3-0 Albania (WCQ)
Czech Republic vs. Croatia Score Prediction
Croatia have been clinical in World Cup qualifying, scoring freely while conceding just once in four matches. Their experience and midfield control give them a clear edge over the Czech Republic, who have been solid at home but rely heavily on set-piece opportunities to create chances. Expect a competitive game where the hosts find the net, but Croatia’s attacking quality should see them edge the contest.
Prediction: Czech Republic 1-2 Croatia (17/2 on Sky Bet)
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Czech Republic vs. Croatia Team News
Czech Republic Team News
- Slavia Prague striker Tomas Chory scored against Saudi Arabia and could retain his spot in attack.
- Patrik Schick and other high-profile forwards are competing for starting positions.
- Czechia’s defense has been solid at home, conceding just six goals in five matches since September 2022.
- No major suspensions reported.
Croatia Team News
- Bayern Munich left-back Josip Stanisic is out with a ligament injury; Borna Sosa could replace him at left-back.
- Andrej Kramaric continues to lead the attack, with Luka Modric dictating play in midfield.
- Croatia have scored 17 goals and conceded just one in four qualifying matches, highlighting their attacking and defensive balance.
- No additional injuries or suspensions reported
Czech Republic vs. Croatia Predicted Lineups
Here’s how we think the two teams will line up for this World Cup qualifying clash.
Czech Republic predicted lineup to play Croatia
Czech Republic (4-2-3-1)
Stanek (GK); Doudera, Holes, Krejci, Zeleny - Soucek, Cerv - Kusej, Sulc, Provod - Chory
Out: None reported
Doubtful: None
Croatia predicted lineup to play Czech Republic
Croatia (4-3-3)
Livakovic (GK); Jakic, Sutalo, Caleta-Car, Sosa - Modric, Sucic - Pasalic, Kramaric, Perisic - Ivanovic
Out: Josip Stanisic (injured)
Doubtful: None
Czech Republic vs. Croatia Betting Odds
Croatia are the bookmakers’ favourites to continue their perfect qualifying run, priced at 16/11 (Paddy Power) to claim all three points in Prague. The Czech Republic, unbeaten at home since 2022, are valued at 21/10 (Paddy Power) to pull off an upset, while the draw is available at 12/5 (Betfair).
Our score prediction is for Croatia to edge it 2-1, but here are the best odds available for five of the likeliest results for this match:
Result | Odds | Bet With |
Czech Republic 1-0 | 9/1 | |
Croatia 1-0 | 15/2 | |
Draw 1-1 | 11/2 | Bet365 |
Croatia 2-1 | 17/2 | |
Draw 1-1 | 9/1 | Sky Bet |
Bet Builder Tips: Czech Republic vs. Croatia
Our bet builder for this game features Croatia to win by one goal, both teams to score, and Andrej Kramaric to score anytime. This combination is priced at 14/1 with Bet365.
You can use our bet builder tool below to create your own selections and find the best available odds for this World Cup qualifying clash.
How to watch: Czech Republic vs. Croatia Live stream, TV channel
Here’s all the key information on how to watch Czech Republic vs. Croatia.
- Date: Thursday, October 9
- Venue: Eden Arena, Prague
- Time: 7:45 p.m.
- TV/Stream: Amazon Prime Video