Even if the Czech Republic were dumped from Group D after playing their three matches, we would still forget their Euro 2020 campaign thanks to a man.
Admittedly, their victory over Scotland saw them produce an impressive team performance, but Patrik Schick wrote his name in European Championship folklore with his incredible strike from just laps inside Scotland’s half.
Next for Jaroslav Silhavy’s side is another trip to Hampden Park, but this time they will face the World Cup finalists Croatia 2018.
This is how we think the Czechs will shape up for their game on Friday …
Vladimir Coufal starts on the right back / PAUL ELLIS / Getty Images
Tomas Vaclik (GK) – He got a lot done in his side’s opening game and in truth he got help from a bit of a bad finish, but let’s not beat the Sevilla man to start his Euro 2020 campaign with a clean sheet.
Vladimir Coufal (RB) – Did well to keep Liverpool’s Andy Robertson quiet last time and will definitely be crucial to his team’s chances of advancing deep into the tournament.
Tomas Kalas (CB) – Not an automatic start for their country but has had its opportunity due to injuries and did not perform so badly in their opener.
Ondrej Celustka (CB) – Aside from the guy who made one of the best braces you will ever see, Celustka was probably his side’s best player against Scotland.
Jan Boril (LB) – Was not tested enough last time and expect a much stricter investigation against Croatia.
Tomas Soucek starts in midfield / Stu Forster / Getty Images
Tomas Soucek (CM) – The West Ham man looks to have taken his impressive form at club level in the tournament and has already technically given an assist to his name thanks to Schick’s incredible strike.
VladimIr Darida (CM) – A compelling part of the Czech midfield. Will not stop running the entire match and will be captain again on Friday.
Alex Kral (CM) – It may have been the man who missed if Lukas Provod had not been pulled out of the squad through injury but he has taken his chance with both hands so far.
Patrik Schick scored a strange goal against Scotland / Petr Josek – Pool / Getty Images
Lukas Masopust (RW) – Was as important to his side defensively at Hampden Park as he went forward. Will have to give more of an attacking threat if his team is to go deep into the tournament but still a solid start.
Patrik Schick (ST) – How do you lose a man who just scored a goal like this? He has the talented kid Adam Hlozek breathing down his neck but he will definitely lead the line again.
Jakub Jankto (LW) – Was much more threatening going forward against Scotland than Masopust on the opposite side and saw a livewire all the time.
