Czechia faces a must-win 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A clash against co-hosts Mexico at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Thursday morning SA time. Kick-off is at 3am CAT (SA, GMT+2)
FORM
Czechia have twice given away a lead in their Group A matches thus far, succumbing 2-1 to South Korea in their opener, followed by a 1-1 draw against South Africa last week.
The results have left Repre (The Representatives) in third place on the log with just one point.
In order to have a realistic chance of qualifying, Czechia must defeat Mexico. This would see them finishing either second or third (depending on the result of the concurrent match between South Africa and South Korea in Guadalupe) – a runners-up spot guarantees progression, while a third place with four points is likely to secure progression.
As for Mexico, two wins from as many matches (2-0 over South Africa and 1-0 over South Korea) have already guaranteed progression and top spot.
El Tri already know that they will be playing their Round of 32 match against a third-place finisher from one of Group C, E, F, H or I in Mexico City in the early hours of the morning on 1 July (3am CAT).
Coach Javier Aguirre will therefore likely rest several key players and experiment with his line-up, possibly helping Czechia in the process.
WHAT THE TEAMS ARE SAYING
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre
“There’s nothing like playing at home, it’s priceless. The Mexico factor is hugely important. [...] We played a good match [against South Korea]. That speaks to the team’s maturity. We were much more patient.”
Czechia coach Miroslav Koubek
“[Against South Africa] we were probably a little bit unlucky, before that we made two stupid mistakes against Korea. That's what football brings. We lost the lead twice, which is frustrating. Maybe we were ten minutes short of advancing. Three points would probably be enough. There's nothing we can do, we have to keep fighting.”
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Mexico – Brian Gutierrez
The attacking midfielder was one of Mexico’s best players from their first two matches, helping to string together attacking moves and keep the co-hosts ticking over in possession. He may well have his playing time restricted in this match to keep his legs fresh for the knockout phase, but he’ll still be an influential figure.
Czechia – Ladislav Krejci
It’s been an underwhelming tournament for Czechia thus far, but Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Ladislav Krejci has been one of their outstanding performers. The 27-year-old has been solid and decisive in the rearguard action, while also offering a potent goal threat when given the chance to get forward.
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Czechia and Mexico have met in just one previous match: a friendly in 2000 in Hong Kong won 2-1 by the European side. El Tri defeated the old Czechoslovakia 3-1 in a World Cup group stage match in Chile 1962.
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