Croatia v Czech Republic: Forecast, Odds and Bets

June 6, 2025

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers heat up on Monday, June 9, 2025, when Croatia host the Czech Republic at the Opus Arena in Osijek. Kick-off is set for 19:45 local time, which translates to 20:45 CEST in Italy, Germany, France and Spain, and 19:45 BST in the UK. With both sides sitting in a pivotal Group Stage position, this clash promises intensity and high stakes as qualification dreams hang in the balance.

This matchup represents a crucial opportunity for Croatia to capitalize on home advantage and continue their momentum, while the Czech Republic will be desperate to secure points on the road and inject fresh life into their campaign. Expect a charged atmosphere, strategic battles across midfield and moments of individual brilliance as both teams pursue vital victories.

How are both teams coming into this?

Croatia arrive on the back of strong momentum, buoyed by commanding performances in recent fixtures. Their usually patient build-up play has shown greater aggression, especially when pressing high up the pitch. Coach tactics have paid dividends, with the hosts demonstrating solidity in defense and a knack for breaking teams down in the final third.

The Czech Republic have experienced mixed fortunes so far in Group 4. While their home performances have been competitive, they’ve struggled to reproduce the same intensity on the road. Tactical adjustments may be required to contain Croatia’s creative threats, and midfield control will be vital if the visitors are to snatch a positive result in Osijek.

Our forecast

We anticipate a closely fought encounter, with Croatia edging the balance due to their home support and recent form. The hosts are likely to dominate possession and create the better chances, while the Czech Republic may sit deeper and rely on swift counters to test the Croatian backline.

Our key prediction is a narrow victory for Croatia, possibly a 2-1 scoreline, reflecting both teams’ attacking qualities and occasional defensive lapses. Expect at least one goal in each half and a competitive match pace from start to finish.