Czech Republic's World Cup hopes dim after group‑stage setbacks

The Czech national football team qualified for the World Cup after a dramatic playoff win over Denmark, sparking nationwide celebrations. However, the tournament campaign has quickly soured. In the group stage the Czechs lost 1‑2 to South Korea and drew 1‑1 with South Africa, leaving them in danger of elimination unless they defeat Mexico.

Coach Miroslav Koubek remains cautiously optimistic, describing the performance as "positive" and a basis to build on, while veteran legend Antonín Panenka expressed disappointment, noting a lack of aggression and activity in the midfield. The squad is heavily composed of players from the domestic Czech league, with 18 of the 29‑man roster drawn from the home competition, which Panenka praised as improving but still below the level of top European leagues.