Road to 2026: Czechia Ends Two-Decade Drought with FIFA World Cup Return

Czechia is set to make a triumphant return to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with memories of their storied past as Czechoslovakia, which included two finals appearances, serving as a reminder of their capabilities.

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After a 20-year absence, the team has secured their spot in the tournament in dramatic fashion, with back-to-back penalty-shootout victories over the Republic of Ireland and Denmark in the UEFA play-offs.

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As they prepare to take on the world's best, Czechia finds itself in Group A, alongside co-hosts Mexico, South Africa, and South Korea, a balanced section where discipline, organisation, and experience will likely be the deciding factors.

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The team's qualification run marked the arrival of veteran coach Miroslav Koubek, who took the reins in December 2025 at the age of 74, replacing Ivan Hasek and promptly delivering results under pressure.

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Czechia finished runners-up in their qualifying group behind Croatia before navigating the play-offs, where they demonstrated their resilience and determination in comeback victories over Ireland and Denmark.

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Against Ireland, they recovered from a two-goal deficit before ultimately winning on penalties, and they showed similar nerve and resilience in their tense battle against Denmark, which also ended in a penalty-shootout victory.

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Historically, Czech football boasts a rich pedigree, with Czechoslovakia having finished runners-up at the 1934 FIFA World Cup and 1962 FIFA World Cup, and the Czech Republic last appearing in the quarter-finals at the 1990 FIFA World Cup.

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Their last finals outing as the Czech Republic came in 2006, but with momentum restored and belief renewed, Czechia arrives in 2026 as a potential surprise contender in Group A.

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One player to watch is Patrik Schick, a 30-year-old striker for Bayer Leverkusen, who remains Czechia's main attacking threat, combining movement, finishing, and aerial strength to great effect.

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Tomas Soucek, a 31-year-old midfielder for West Ham United, is another key figure, valued for his physical presence, late runs into the box, and leadership qualities, which make him one of Czechia's most reliable leaders.

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Captain Ladislav Krejci, a 27-year-old defender for Wolverhampton Wanderers, brings authority to the defence, with his versatility, strength in duels, and comfort on the ball making him a crucial component of the team.

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Czechia's fixtures in the 2026 FIFA World Cup include a June 11 match against South Korea at Estadio Akron in Zapopan, Mexico, a June 18 match against South Africa at Atlanta Stadium in the United States, and a June 24 match against Mexico at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Mexico.