The Czech Republic national team will be playing for their World Cup future this Thursday, June 18, when they face South Africa at Atlanta Stadium in Matchday 2 of Group A at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

A MUST-WIN SITUATION

After a 2-1 defeat to South Korea in Guadalajara in their long-awaited return to the World Cup after 20 years, the “Lions” have no margin for error if they want to arrive in strong form for their clash with co-hosts Mexico.

Matej Kovar is expected to retain his place in goal.

Head coach Miroslav Koubek is likely to stick with a 3-4-3 formation, fielding a back line of Stepan Chaloupek, Robin Hranac and Ladislav Kreji, with Vladimír Coufal, Alexandr Sojka, Jaroslav Zeleny and West Ham United midfielder Tomas Soucek forming the midfield unit.

Up front, Patrick Schick and Lukas Provod are set to lead the attack once again. The only expected change would see Adam Hlozek replace Pavel Sulc after his strong performance against South Korea in Guadalajara.

Will this adjustment make the difference?

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