The Czech Republic have named their final World Cup squad, with Tomas Soucek, Patrik Schick and a strong Slavia Prague contingent included.
The Czech Republic have confirmed their final 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with experienced midfielder Tomas Soucek leading a group that blends seasoned internationals with emerging talent. Head coach Miroslav Koubek has placed his faith in the core players who guided the nation through the playoffs and back to football's biggest stage for the first time since 2006.
The squad announcement marks another milestone in a remarkable turnaround under Koubek. After taking charge following a shock qualifying defeat to the Faroe Islands, the veteran coach successfully steered the Czechs through the playoff route and into the tournament in North America.
West Ham midfielder Soucek remains the standout figure in the squad. The 31-year-old arrives at the World Cup with 89 international caps and 17 goals since making his debut in 2016. The Czech Republic may not possess the star power of previous generations, but they arrive with a clear identity. Koubek has favoured a disciplined and physical style focused on organisation and set pieces. Soucek remains central to that approach. His aerial ability and leadership offer balance in midfield.
Former West Ham defender Vladimir Coufal also earns selection following his move to Hoffenheim. The experienced pair provide leadership alongside Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick and midfielder Vladimir Darida, who returns to the international fold at the age of 35.
Koubek has largely retained the players who delivered playoff victories over the Republic of Ireland and Denmark on penalties after two dramatic 2-2 draws. Those victories sealed their first World Cup appearance since 2006.Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Ladislav Krejci and Lyon midfielder Pavel Sulc are also expected to play important roles during the tournament.
Domestic champions Slavia Prague are heavily represented in the squad, supplying ten players. Their strong presence highlights the club's growing influence on the national team setup.
Defenders Tomas Holes, David Doudera, David Jurasek and David Zima are among the Slavia contingent. Midfielders Lukas Provod and Michal Sadilek also feature, while forwards Tomas Chory and Mojmir Chytil add further attacking depth. Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick will spearhead the attack. The forward arrives with 25 goals in 52 appearances for his country.
The reliance on players familiar with one another could prove valuable during a demanding group-stage campaign.
One of the biggest talking points is the inclusion of 17-year-old Sparta Prague midfielder Hugo Sochurek. The teenager impressed during the latter stages of the domestic season and has been rewarded with a place on the plane.
Koubek's squad also includes several players with limited international experience, including Alexandr Sojka and Denis Visinsky. Their selection reflects a willingness to balance proven performers with emerging prospects.
Meanwhile, Hoffenheim forward Adam Hlozek has recovered from injury at the right time. He boosted his World Cup hopes by scoring in a recent warm-up match against Kosovo.
Schick will carry much of the goalscoring responsibility after entering the tournament with 25 goals in 52 international appearances. His finishing ability could be crucial if the Czechs are to progress from Group A. Soucek's leadership and physical presence remain central to Koubek's tactical plans. Lyon playmaker Sulc also arrives in excellent form after contributing 11 goals and three assists during the Ligue 1 season.
At the back, Krejci and Coufal will anchor a defence expected to rely on discipline, organisation and strength at set pieces.
The Czech Republic begin their World Cup campaign against South Korea in Guadalajara on June 12. They then face South Africa in Atlanta on June 18 before concluding the group stage against co-hosts Mexico in Mexico City on June 25.
With a balanced squad featuring experience, domestic chemistry and youthful promise, the Czechs will believe they have a genuine opportunity to reach the knockout rounds.
Goalkeepers:
Lukas Hornicek (Braga), Matej Kovar (PSV Eindhoven), Jindrich Stanek (Slavia Prague)
Defenders:
Vladimir Coufal (Hoffenheim), David Doudera (Slavia Prague), Tomas Holes (Slavia Prague), Robin Hranac (Hoffenheim), Stepan Chaloupek (Slavia Prague), David Jurasek (Slavia Prague), Ladislav Krejci (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Jaroslav Zeleny (Sparta Prague), David Zima (Slavia Prague)
Midfielders:
Lukas Cerv (Viktoria Plzen), Vladimir Darida (Hradec Kralove), Lukas Provod (Slavia Prague), Michal Sadilek (Slavia Prague), Hugo Sochurek (Sparta Prague), Alexandr Sojka (Viktoria Plzen), Tomas Soucek (West Ham United), Pavel Sulc (Olympique Lyonnais), Denis Visinsky (Viktoria Plzen)
Forwards:
Adam Hlozek (Hoffenheim), Tomas Chory (Slavia Prague), Mojmir Chytil (Slavia Prague), Jan Kuchta (Sparta Prague), Patrik Schick (Bayer Leverkusen)
