Czech Republic vs South Africa, a clash between two losers from their opening matches in Group A of the 2026 World Cup , where a similar result could prematurely shatter their hopes of progressing further.
Coach Miroslav Koubek and his team must be very disappointed about the 1-2 defeat against South Korea , where they took the lead thanks to Ladislav Krejci's goal (59'), but then conceded two goals (67', 80'), allowing the opponent to come back and win 3 points.
The result leaves the Czech Republic in third place in Group A, with no points, similar to South Africa, who are at the bottom (losing 0-2 to Mexico).
That's why the Czech Republic vs South Africa match was so crucial for both teams. For the African side, the heavy defeat to the home team was compounded by the fact that two players were sent off: defender Sithole and midfielder Zwane.
South Africa's head coach Hugo Broos declared that the team would have a "strong response " after their disappointing opening match at the 2026 World Cup, and also made some changes to the starting lineup.
But South Africa must be wary of the Czech Republic, who are very good at aerial duels and can use their physical advantage to threaten the opponent's goal from set pieces.
The Czech Republic and South Africa have only met once, at the FIFA Confederations Cup in 1997, which ended in a 2-2 draw.
In terms of personnel, the Czech Republic has no injury problems ahead of this match, and all players are ready to play.
Meanwhile, South Africa suffered a setback in terms of personnel as Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane were suspended after receiving red cards in their match against Mexico.
ESPN football experts predict that the Czech Republic will win 1-0 against South Africa in this crucial match.
While also predicting the Czech Republic to get their first 3 points at the 2026 World Cup, Sportsmole experts suggest a 2-1 scoreline for South Africa . Goal also predicts a similar result.
Meanwhile, Sportskeeda predicts a 1-1 draw between the two teams .
Predicted lineup :
Czech Republic : Kovar; Hranac, Chaloupek, Krejci; Coufal, Soucek, Sojka, Zeleny; Sulc, Provod; Schick.
South Africa : Williams; Mudau, Mbokazi, Okon, Modiba; Adams, Mbatha; Appollis, Mokoena, Moremi; Foster..
Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/du-doan-bong-da-ch-sec-vs-nam-phi-bang-a-23h-ngay-18-6-trut-gian-2526884.html
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