Euro 2016 Group D: Croatia can come through Czech clash and confirm last 16 spot

Unbeaten in both those encounters, Cacic’s crew under notable predecessor and ITV pundit Slaven Bilic ran out 4-2 when last clashing with the Czech Republic in 2011. Fiorentina frontman Nikola Kalinic helped himself to a brace then.

Because they have kept six clean sheets in their recent unbeaten run, however, a win to nil appeals for the Blazers at nifty 19/10 odds.

Midfield masterclass

Just fresh off being given a lesson in ball retention by Spain, it doesn’t get any easier for the Czechs because they now line up against another pair of pass-masters in spectacular scorer Luka Modric (Real Madrid) and Ivan Rakitic (Barcelona).

Having netted in stunning fashion to thwart Turkey last time out, you wouldn’t bet against more Modric magic here, and the former Spurs playmaker is a 7/2 chance to net once more anytime.

Engine room partner in crime Rakitic, meanwhile, is shorter but tastier at 10/3 in the same market, while proven performance against this opposition Kalinic is a 13/2 chance to score last because he remains behind Mario Mandzukic (6/4 anytime favourite) in the pecking order.

Czechs could change supporting cast

One surprise omission from the Czech starting XI against Spain was the absence of their leading marksman in qualifying, Borek Dockal. Theodor Gebre Solassie was a conservative selection out wide to try and stop Jordi Alba, and Vrba cannot afford to be so cautious again.

Dockal did the business on the road to the France finals with four from the right flank, and it’d be a shock to see him not restored by the Czech Republic. Odds of 7/2 say he can come in and make the difference by scoring anytime.

Czech captain Tomas Rosicky may have been released by Arsenal, but remains a regular when fit for his country despite advancing years. He netted in the 4-2 loss alluded to above, and is an 11/2 chance to do so again here.

Related

You’ll find comprehensive coverage of Euro 2016 on our dedicated section.

Coral’s top tip: This Czech Republic side is a shadow of its former self, and so it is to Croatia’s cunning midfield that looks to be where the match will be won and lost. Back the Blazers for a win to nil at 19/10.