The top two in Group L of 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying will clash on Thursday night as the Czech Republic are set to welcome Croatia to the Fortuna Arena in Prague. Both teams are tied on 12 points each, six points ahead of their nearest competitors, and so should both be confident of booking their place in the finals.
The Czechs have played one more game than Croatia so far though, with the latter being perfect in qualifying so far with four wins out of four. Going to Prague is expected to be their toughest test though in the group.
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Czech Republic vs Croatia prediction: Visitors to gain victory again?
Key stats
- Czech Republic have lost just once in all competitions since September 2024, although that was a heavy 5-1 defeat to Croatia.
- Croatia have scored a total of 17 goals across just four qualifiers, conceding only once.
- Croatia are unbeaten in the previous four H2Hs across all competitions.
Correct score prediction: Czech Republic 1-3 Croatia
With Croatia in such great form and scoring plenty of goals in qualifying, we are backing them to win again in an albeit tricky away match on paper. If the previous H2Hs are anything to go by, we are in for an entertaining affair.
Pre-game odds and win probability: Croatia favourites with bookmakers
- HOME: 15/8 (2.88) – 34.8%
- DRAW: 23/10 (3.30) – 30.3%
- AWAY: 7/5 (2.40) – 41.7%
*odds from Ladbrokes, subject to change
As shown by the implied probabilities, Croatia have been installed as the favourites with bookmakers to claim yet another three points in qualifying. However, a draw and a Czech Republic victory on home soil can still be backed at over 30%.
Also, feel free to check out our Football Betting Tips Today page for more of our predictions on the other World Cup qualifiers taking place.
Most recent H2Hs: Croatia unbeaten
As mentioned before, Croatia are unbeaten in the previous four meetings in total across all competitions. Their last H2H was the 5-1 thrashing in their World Cup qualifier in June.
Czech Republic preview: Couple injury issues
The Czechs will be without both David Doudera and Tomas Holes due to injury. However, there will still be some recognisable faces expected to be named in the starting XI.
Predicted lineup: Stanek (GK); Coufal, Zima, Brabec, Krejci; Soucek, Sadilek; Hlozek, Cerny, Lingr & Schick
Last five results:
- Czech Republic 1-1 Saudi Arabia
- Montenegro 0-2 Czech Republic
- Croatia 5-1 Czech Republic
- Czech Republic 2-0 Montenegro
- Gibraltar 0-4 Czech Republic
Croatia preview: Sucic could feature
Luka Sucic could feature for Croatia after recovering from injury. However, with their midfield so tried and trusted, it is unlikely that he will be given a start here.
Predicted lineup: Livakovic (GK); Stanisic, Sutalo, Gvardiol, Sosa; Modric, Brozovic, Kovacic; Perisic, Kramaric & Budimir
Last five results:
- Croatia 4-0 Montenegro
- Faroe Islands 0-1 Croatia
- Croatia 5-1 Czech Republic
- Gibraltar 0-7 Croatia
- France 3-0 Croatia
Player to watch: Luka Modric
Luka Modric is showing no signs of slowing down, and is enjoying an excellent season so far. Indeed, the Croatian moved to AC Milan this summer after leaving Real Madrid, and has helped them reach the top end of the Serie A table.