Czech Republic unveils final 26-man World Cup squad after Kosovo win
The Czech Republic has finalised its 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup. After a 2-1 victory over Kosovo in a warmup match, coach Miroslav Koubek trimmed his initial 29-player selection. The team now prepares for its opening game against South Korea on June 11 in Guadalajara, Mexico.
The Czechs faced Kosovo on Sunday in a warmup game that ended 2-1. Hugo Sochůrek, a Sparta Prague midfielder, made history by becoming the youngest player ever to represent the Czech national team. He came off the bench during the match, helping secure the win.
Adam Hložek, who recently recovered from long-term calf and foot injuries, also featured in the game. The Hoffenheim forward scored a goal, marking his return to the squad after a difficult period. Coach Koubek announced the final 26-man roster after the match. Among those selected were experienced players like Lyon midfielder Pavel Šulc, Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick, and West Ham midfielder Tomáš Souček. Two Slavia Prague players, forward Tomáš Chorý and defender David Douděra, were included despite being suspended by their club for disciplinary reasons. Pavel Bucha of FC Cincinnati, Christophe Kabongo from Mladá Boleslav, and Viktoria Plzeň midfielder Tomáš Ladra did not make the final cut. The team will now travel to the United States for another warmup game against Guatemala in New Jersey on June 4. Once the tournament begins, the Czechs will be based in Mansfield, Texas.
The Czech Republic will kick off its World Cup campaign against South Korea on June 11. With a mix of youth and experience, the squad aims to make an impact in the tournament. Their preparations include one final friendly before heading to their base in Texas for the competition.
