Here’s a sharp analysis and prediction for Croatia vs. Czech Republic in today’s 2026 World Cup qualifier (Group L):

• Match Snapshot

• Date & Time: Monday, June 9, 2025

• Kick-off: 18:45 CET (19:45 EAT)

• Venue: Stadium Zagreb, Croatia

• Croatia – Analysis

• Strong home form: Croatia crushed Gibraltar 7–0 in their last qualifier, and have won 3 of their 4 most recent home games since Euro 2024.

• Midfield faces challenge: While Luka Modrić, Brozović, and Kovačić offer experience and control, the Czech Republic’s combative midfield led by Tomáš Souček may disrupt Croatia’s flow.

• Attacking strength: Croatia tends to score around 2 goals at home but has lacked a consistent striker since Mandžukić’s retirement.

• Czech Republic – Analysis

• Solid away resilience: They held Belgium to a draw and have lost only 2 of their past 8 games .

• Midfield discipline: Tomas Souček is key in breaking up play, making Czech Republic tough to break down.

• Goal-scoring form: Patrik Schick has been prolific in qualifiers, scoring three goals so far.

• Head-to-Head & Stats

• Both teams tend to deliver under 3.5 goals in recent meetings.

• Czech Republic often manage a point or better, even in tough away games .

• Recent stats favor Croatia for a clean-sheet win, with talkSPORT suggesting a 2–0 scoreline.

• Prediction

TeamStrengthsConcernsCroatiaHome dominance, midfield experienceLack of a cutting striker, tactical disruptCzech RepublicDisciplined, effective away strategyLess firepower, vulnerable vs Croatian midfield

Likely outcome:
Croatia 2–0 Czech Republic
Croatia should edge it with a solid defensive display and controlled midfield play, and Czech efforts may fall short on the road.