In a high-stakes showdown at Euro 2024, the Czech Republic finds itself at a crossroads after a rocky start to their campaign.
After a disappointing loss to Portugal and a frustrating draw against Georgia, the Czechs are left with a daunting task: they must defeat Turkey to keep their hopes of progressing from Group F alive.
Failure to secure victory would mark only the second time in their European Championship history that they exit the group stage without a win, echoing their fate in 2016, where they also faced Turkey in their final group match and suffered a 2-0 defeat in Lens.
The historical head-to-head record doesn't offer much solace either, with the Czech Republic managing just two wins in their last eight encounters against Turkey, while suffering five defeats.
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Memories of a 3-2 loss in Euro 2008 add to the pressure, making this clash a pivotal moment for the Czech team.
On the other hand, Turkey enters the match with renewed optimism following a solid start to the tournament.
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Despite a comprehensive 3-0 defeat to Portugal, their earlier 3-1 victory over Georgia has positioned them well in the group standings.
With three points already secured, Turkey eyes a top-two finish, which would be a significant achievement given their recent struggles in past Euros.
Coach Vincenzo Montella's side, who endured a five-game winless streak before the tournament, seeks to emulate the success of their 2008 squad, which reached the semi-finals.
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However, offensive concerns linger as Turkey has managed to score more than one goal in just one of their last seven outings, a statistic not lost on Montella as they prepare to face a determined Czech team.
Players to watch
The absence of the Czech Republic's Patrik Schick, a prolific scorer, due to injury casts a shadow over their attacking options.
In his potential absence, forward Mojmír Chytil aims to make an impact, having scored six goals in his previous seven international starts, contributing significantly to victories when on target.
For Turkey, captain Hakan Çalhanoğlu remains a pivotal figure, having previously clinched a decisive goal against the Czech Republic in a past encounter.
His leadership and ability to inspire from midfield will be crucial as Turkey looks to secure at least a point to secure progression to the next stage.