World Cup Playoffs 2026: Czech Republic-Ireland, likely lineups

Czech Republic-Ireland, scheduled to take place in Prague at 8:45 p.m., is a match valid for the 2026 World Cup playoffs: whoever wins will face one of Denmark or Macedonia for a place at the rainbow event starting next June in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Both selections have not participated in the World Cup for 20 years. The Czech Republic finished second in Group A behind Croatia, while Ireland finished second in Group F, beaten only by Portugal.

Schick is the offensive stalwart for the Czech Republic, which lines up Sulk and Provod in the three-quarter. The midfielders are Soucek and Sadilek, while on the outsides are Coufal and Jurasek.

Ireland is leaning toward 4-4-2. In attack will be the tandem of Azaz and Troy Parrott, while on the flanks Ogbene and Szmodics will joust. Molumby and Knight will direct play in midfield.

Czech Republic-Ireland, the likely lineups
Czech Republic (3-4-2-1): Kovar; Vitik, Krejci, Hranac; Coufal, Soucek, Sadilek, Jurasek; Sulk, Provod; Schick. All. Koubek.
Ireland (4-4-2): Kelleher; O’Brien, Collins, O’Shea, Manning; Ogbene, Molumby, Knight, Szmodics; Azaz, Parrott. All. Hallgrimsson.