Euro 2016 preview and odds: Czech Republic vs Croatia

Published on: 17/06/2016

Euro 2016 preview and odds: Czech Republic vs Croatia

Stade Geoffroy Guichard, Saint-Etienne - June 15, 2016

Group stage - Group E

Croatia will go in search of a second win that would put them through to the knockout stage of Euro 2016, while opponents Czech Republic will attempt to atone for their opening game defeat to Spain.

Darijo Srna back to captain Croatia

After leaving France to attend his father`s funeral, Darijo Srna will be back to lead out his side against the Czech Republic in St Etienne on Friday, knowing that a win would see his side progress to the knockout stages. The game will mark the first ever competitive meeting between the two sides.

Both teams were involved in close matches on Matchday One but only Croatia emerged with any points after a 1-0 win over Turkey. Czech Republic were thoroughly outplayed in their game against Spain but almost held on for a draw until a late goal from Gerard Pique sealed a win for the reigning champions.

Czech Republic coach Pavel Vrba has hinted that there will be some change in his selection as he attempts to implement a more attacking approach in this game. He will certainly be trying to get Tomas Rosicky more involved after he failed to make an impact against Spain.

With the Czech Republic desperate for three points, this should be an open and attacking game which should see Rosicky more involved in an advanced role. Ante Čačić rarely fields the same team for two games in a row, so there could be changes in the Croatia starting XI - but the approach should remain the same.

Form (all competitions):

Czech Republic: LLWWDLLWWL

Croatia: WWWDWWWWLD

Betting predictions

With both teams expected to approach this match on the front foot, there could be a few goals in store.

You can back Both Teams to Score at 6/5 with Bet365.

By Neil Morris

Published on: 17/06/2016

Any odds displayed within this preview were correct at the time of publishing (17/06/2016 12:41:01) but are subject to change.