Croatia vs Czech Republic, FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, Today Match Prediction

Croatia vs Czech Republic Match Prediction & Analysis

Group L's top two, Croatia and Czech Republic, clash at the Opus Arena on Monday evening in a pivotal 2026 World Cup qualifier. Croatia, fresh off a 7-0 rout of Gibraltar, is third with three points from one game. The Czech Republic leads the group with a perfect nine points from three matches. 

This encounter, played behind closed doors due to a UEFA sanction, is crucial for group supremacy. Croatia, under Zlatko Dalic, combines experienced players with youth and boasts an impressive 11-match unbeaten home record in World Cup qualifiers since 2013. 

The Czech Republic, meanwhile, is on a strong unbeaten run. Past head-to-head encounters at the Euros have been tight draws, setting the stage for another competitive match in Osijek.

TEAMS PREVIEW

Croatia Preview

Croatia, a consistent force in international football with World Cup final and third-place finishes in recent years, remains an intriguing prospect. Their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign began impressively with a dominant 7-0 victory over Gibraltar. 

Under Zlatko Dalic, they've established themselves as European powerhouses and are favorites to top Group L. Despite only two wins in their last six competitive fixtures (including a Nations League win over France), their recent thrashing of Gibraltar provides confidence. 

Croatia also holds an unbeaten record against the Czech Republic in their last three encounters (two draws, one win). Key players like Luka Modric and Lovro Majer are expected to anchor the midfield, with prolific striker Ante Budimir leading the attack after scoring against Gibraltar. 

Croatia probable starting lineup: Livakovic; Stanisic, Caleta-Car, Sutalo, Gvardiol; Modric, Majer; Baturina, Pasalic, Perisic; Budimir

Czech Republic Preview

The Czech Republic, under Ivan Hasek, are making significant strides, evidenced by their impressive eight-match unbeaten run. They've started their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign flawlessly, securing top spot in Group L with victories over Faroe Islands (2-1), Gibraltar (4-0), and Montenegro (2-0), demonstrating serious ambitions for direct qualification. 

While their away World Cup qualifying record shows two wins from their last five, their overall form is strong, with six wins and two draws in their last eight games. Star striker Patrik Schick is in scintillating form, having already netted four goals in three qualifiers and is expected to lead the line against Croatia. 

However, Adam Hlozek remains a doubt due to injury. The Czechs aim to carry their consistent European Championship qualifying success to the World Cup stage. 

Czech Republic probable starting lineup: Kovar (Gk); Coufal, Holes, Krejci, Zeleny; Soucek, Cerv; Cerny, Sulc, Provod; Schick

CROATIA vs CZECH REPUBLIC
Winning Prediction

Croatia, with their established quality and strong home record in World Cup qualifiers, are favored to win this pivotal Group L clash. Despite the Czech Republic's impressive unbeaten streak and attacking prowess, Croatia's experience and deep squad should see them secure a crucial victory.

Croatia to Win (2-1)

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