Czech Republic vs. Ukraine  : UEFA Nations League Live Match Preview, livescore, predictions, predicted lineup, betting tips, odds and live stream

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The Czech Republic had a tough outing in their first group match, being outclassed by Georgia, who put four goals past them in 66 minutes. Although Lukas Kalvach managed a consolation goal late on, it was a dismal display from Ivan Hasek’s side, who are in desperate need of a revival after a poor summer that included a group-stage exit at Euro 2024.

The Czechs have struggled since being relegated from League A, and they now sit at the bottom of their group with a -3 goal difference. Hasek, who had a bright start to his tenure with four friendly wins, has yet to find competitive success and is under pressure to turn things around. Despite their defensive frailties, the Czech Republic have managed to score in all eight matches under Hasek, and they will need their attack to be sharp against Ukraine.

Ukraine, meanwhile, took an early lead against Albania thanks to Yukhym Konoplya’s 49th-minute goal, but they were quickly pegged back and lost 2-1. Serhiy Rebrov’s side are also looking to recover from their own disappointing summer, where they were knocked out in the Euro 2024 group stage. Like their hosts, Ukraine are desperate for a win to avoid being dragged into a relegation battle. 

Key Players

Patrik Schick: The towering striker remains the Czech Republic’s biggest attacking threat. Known for his aerial prowess and finishing ability, Schick will be crucial in leading the line and breaking down Ukraine’s defense. He is not only a target man but also capable of producing moments of individual brilliance, as seen in his past international performances.

 Adam Hložek: A versatile forward, Hložek has the ability to play alongside Schick or drop deeper to create space. His creativity and quick feet make him a vital component of the Czech attack. If he can link up well with Schick, the duo could cause problems for Ukraine’s defense, particularly on the counter.

Oleksandr Zinchenko: A key figure in Ukraine’s midfield, Zinchenko is instrumental in controlling the tempo of the game. Although he came off the bench against Albania, Zinchenko is expected to start against the Czech Republic. His vision, ball distribution, and leadership will be vital as Ukraine seeks to dominate possession and push forward in attack.

 Vitaliy Mykolenko: Operating on the left side of the defense, Mykolenko is not only strong defensively but also contributes to Ukraine’s attack with his overlapping runs. His ability to deliver crosses and combine with Zinchenko will be essential for Ukraine to exploit the Czech Republic’s defensive vulnerabilities. 

 Team News 

The Czech Republic suffered an injury blow in their loss to Georgia, as left wing-back Matej Rynes was forced off with a back injury. Jaroslav Zeleny is expected to replace him. Kalvach, who scored in the Georgia match, could also start, while Adam Hložek may partner Patrik Schick up front.

For Ukraine, Serhiy Rebrov’s side avoided further injuries against Albania, but they are still without key players Artem Dovbyk and Mykhaylo Mudryk, both of whom withdrew before the tournament due to injuries. Zinchenko is expected to return to the starting lineup, with Andriy Yarmolenko likely remaining on the bench as he chases the national team’s all-time goalscoring record. 

 Predicted Lineups 

Ivan Hašek , the Czech Republic manager , will likely go with the 3-4-3 formation with Kovar in goal.A defensive backline of  Zima, Krejci, and  Vitik. Coufal, Soucek, Kalvach, and  Zeleny in the midfield area with Provod, Schick, and  Hlozek  in attack.

Serhiy Rebrov , the Ukraine manager , is likely to go with the 4-3-3 formation with Trubin in goal. A defensive backline of  Konoplya, Zabarnyi, Matvienko,  and Mykolenko. Sudakov, Zinchenko,  and Shaparenko in midfield  with Tsygankov, Yaremchuk and Kabaev  in attack. 

 Prediction

Both teams have shown defensive weaknesses, but Ukraine’s more cohesive attack and key players like Zinchenko and Mykolenko should give them the edge. Patrik Schick and Adam Hložek will pose a threat for the Czech Republic, but Ukraine’s quality in midfield and their ability to exploit defensive gaps may be the deciding factor.