Both the Czech Republic and Croatia played with extreme caution, turning their Group L encounter into a rather uneventful affair that ended goalless
Czech Republic 0–0 Croatia – A point apiece in Prague, Group L, UEFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers.
What was expected to be a thrilling top-of-the-table clash instead became a tactical battle, with both sides prioritising structure over risk. The result leaves the group wide open as the qualification race tightens.
Who will be the next in line to join the qualified teams at the biggest football stages next year?
Check here for the latest World Cup 2026 updates.
Match Information
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers – UEFA
Venue: Fortuna Arena (Prague, Czech Republic)
Main Highlights – Czech Republic 0–0 Croatia
The Czechs clearly learned from their painful 5–1 defeat to Croatia back in June. Playing at home this time, they pressed early and created a good opening through Pavel Šulc, whose low shot was well saved by Dominik Livaković.
Croatia also had chances in the first half. Ivan Perišić, often a reliable finisher, missed a clear opportunity from inside the box before sending a harmless header wide moments later.
The second half saw both sides settle into a cautious rhythm. Neither team wanted to commit too many players forward, especially on a night marking the Croatian manager’s 100th match in charge. The result seemed acceptable to both as the final whistle confirmed a goalless stalemate.
Group L Standings (after matchday)
Following the draw, Croatia remain at the top of Group L with 13 points — level with the Czech Republic but ahead on goal difference. Elsewhere in the group, the Faroe Islands shocked Montenegro with a 4–0 win.
With just a two-point gap separating the top two, the qualification battle in Group L remains wide open heading into the final rounds.
Post-Match Analysis and Statistics
The 0–0 draw may have disappointed neutral fans, but it reflected the caution of two teams well aware of how valuable every point can be at this stage.
Only five shots on target were recorded between them, with possession almost evenly split at 55% for Croatia and 45% for the hosts. Despite having slightly more control, Croatia managed fewer shots on target (2 compared to 3 for the Czechs). Both goalkeepers had a relatively quiet night in what was more a test of discipline than creativity.
The Czech Republic once again proved their resilience, showcasing a well-organised backline and strong collective mentality. Croatia, full of world-class talent, continued to struggle with finishing — an issue that could cost them dearly in upcoming fixtures.
Luka Modrić had an average outing, remaining the most accurate passer on the pitch but lacking his usual spark. The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner’s influence is still vital, though age may be starting to limit his explosiveness.
What’s Next
With the standings tight, the Czech Republic will aim to improve their goal difference when they face the Faroe Islands on 12 October, while Croatia take on bottom-placed Gibraltar. These matches will conclude the October international window before the qualifiers resume in November.
The race for a ticket to North America 2026 is far from over — and every point from here on out will carry immense weight.
Curious about your team’s real-time prospects? Explore our up-to-date World Cup Odds here.
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