Croatia aim to end the tournament with a win: Croatia vs Czechia prediction
Four straight defeats and 15 goals conceded — Croatia are enduring one of their worst UEFA Nations League campaigns. Slaven Bilic’s side will look to salvage something from the tournament on November 15, 2026, when they face Czechia in their final group-stage match. The teams occupy the bottom two places in Group 3 of League A, with Croatia needing just a draw to hold on to third place.
Croatia: return of veterans could help end losing streak
Croatia opened the tournament with a 2-1 win over Czechia, but have since suffered four straight defeats. They lost to Spain (1-4 and 1-2) and England twice (0-7 and 1-2). The heavy home defeat to England was particularly painful, exposing serious defensive problems.
Despite their poor results, the Chequered Ones still hold the advantage over Czechia in the race for third place. Ivan Perisic, who missed the previous match through suspension, returns to the squad ahead of the final round. Luka Modric is also expected to feature and could make his 208th appearance for the national team. Igor Matanovic is likely to lead the line once again.
Czechia: five straight defeats have left the team on the brink of relegation
Czechia have endured a disastrous Nations League campaign, losing all five of their group-stage matches. Santi Denia’s side fell to Croatia (1-2), England twice (0-2 and 0-3), and Spain (1-3 and 0-2). The visitors have scored just twice during that run, while conceding 12 goals.
The main problem has been a lack of firepower, leaving the team unable to make up for its defensive errors. The suspended Ladislav Krejci, who was sent off against Spain, will also be unavailable. Adam Hlozek is expected to be the main attacking threat, while experienced midfielder Tomas Soucek could return to the starting lineup.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Croatia have lost their last four Nations League matches, conceding 15 goals in that span
- Czechia have suffered five defeats in five group-stage matches, with an aggregate goal difference of 2:12
- Croatia are unbeaten in their previous seven meetings with Czechia, recording four wins and three draws
Hosts can end their poor run: Croatia vs Czechia prediction
Both teams are struggling, but Croatia look the stronger side thanks to their players’ superior individual quality and their edge in the head-to-head record. Perisic’s return and the possible inclusion of Modric from the start should give the hosts a confidence boost.
Czechia will look to finish the tournament on a positive note, but their problems in front of goal and Krejci’s absence make the task more difficult. Given the results of their previous meetings, a narrow Croatia win looks the most likely outcome.