Czech Republic Will Be Eager To End A Winless Streak Against Scotland That Dates Back To 2011
When the Czech Republic takes on Steve Clarke’s side in their Euro 2020 opener on Monday, coach Jaroslav Silhavy said the Czech Republic will be eager to end a winless streak against Scotland that dates back to 2011.
The two teams have met four times in the last decade, with Scotland winning the last three times. Including 2-1 and 1-0 victories in the UEFA Nations League last year. In 2011, the other match, a Euro qualifier, ended in a stalemate.
The experience gained from those matches, according to Silhavy, will help the Czechs get off to a good start before facing Group D favourites Croatia and England.
“We hope that our experience playing Scotland will be beneficial and that we will finally be able to beat them,” Silhavy said at a press conference on Sunday. “It is, without a doubt, a crucial match, and we will face more difficult opponents in the future.”
The Czech Republic enters the tournament with a core of players from the Slavia Prague team that advanced to the Europa League quarter-finals, giving them confidence to make an impact.
Ondrej Kudela, Is Serving A 10-Match UEFA Suspension For “Racist Behaviour”
Ondrej Kudela, a centre back for Slavia Prague, is serving a 10-match UEFA suspension for “racist behaviour” during the club’s Europa League last-16 match against Scottish champion Rangers. It could add some spice to their Euro showdown.
We want to put on a great show for the fans, and we have no ill feelings toward Scotland.” Silhavy said. “Scotland has the advantage because they are the home team. The home crowd is enthralled by the game. It’ll be thrilling, and it’ll inspire the Scots.”
Apart from Werder Bremen goalkeeper Jiri Pavlenka, who had to withdraw due to injury, Silhavy said that all of the players were fit. Tomas Koubek is expected to join the squad on Tuesday, while Tomas Vaclik will start against Scotland. The coach, who will be leading a team in a major tournament for the first time, said he had his starting lineup in mind but could make a few changes after Sunday’s practise session.
“It’s difficult when you lose a player during preparation, especially a goalkeeper.” Silhavy said, “I hope this is the last time we have to make a change.”
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