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Match Overview

The UEFA Nations League returns as Czechia hosts Croatia in Round 1 at the Fortuna Arena on Sunday, 27 September 2026. This match marks the beginning of both teams' campaigns in the 2026-27 edition of the competition. Czechia, under the guidance of manager Ivan Hašek, will look to start strong in front of their home crowd, while Zlatko Dalić's Croatia aims to build on their recent successes in international tournaments. With both sides eyeing promotion or consolidation in their respective leagues, the stakes are high early in the group stage.

Team News & Expected Lineups

Czechia is expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Tomáš Souček anchoring the midfield alongside Alex Král. Key forward Patrik Schick will lead the attack, supported by creative midfielder Antonín Barák. Defensively, Vladimír Coufal and David Zima are likely to feature. Absences include midfielder Jakub Jankto, who is sidelined due to injury.

Croatia is anticipated to deploy a 4-3-3 setup, with Luka Modrić orchestrating play in midfield alongside Marcelo Brozović and Mateo Kovačić. Up front, Andrej Kramarić and Josip Brekalo will provide width, while Bruno Petković could start as the central striker. Defensively, Joško Gvardiol and Domagoj Vida are expected to form the center-back pairing. Croatia will be without Ivan Perišić, who is recovering from a long-term injury.

Head-to-Head

Historically, Croatia holds a slight edge over Czechia in their head-to-head encounters. The two nations have met six times, with Croatia winning three matches, Czechia claiming two victories, and one ending in a draw. Their most recent meeting was a friendly in 2022, which Croatia won 2-1. However, Czechia has been strong at home, making this a tightly contested fixture.

Key Players to Watch

For Czechia, Patrik Schick will be the focal point in attack, with his aerial prowess and clinical finishing crucial to breaking down Croatia's defense. Midfielder Tomáš Souček will also be vital, providing both defensive cover and a threat from set-pieces.

For Croatia, all eyes will be on captain Luka Modrić, whose vision and passing range can dictate the tempo of the game. Defender Joško Gvardiol will be key in neutralizing Czechia's attacking threats, while Andrej Kramarić will look to exploit any defensive lapses.

Prediction & Analysis

Tactically, Czechia will likely rely on a compact defensive shape and quick transitions, utilizing Schick's hold-up play and the midfield's physicality. Croatia, meanwhile, will aim to dominate possession through their technically gifted midfield trio, looking to create chances via intricate build-up play.

Given Croatia's experience and depth in midfield, they may have a slight edge, but Czechia's home advantage and organized defense could make this a tight affair. A 1-1 draw seems plausible, with both teams sharing the points in a competitive opener.