Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
In the second round of the U21 European Championship group stage, Czech Republic will face Germany. The match is set for Sunday, June 15, with kickoff scheduled for 21:00 Central European Time. I’m offering a bet on both the outcome and the total goals in this encounter.
Match preview
The Czech U21 team twice reached the final of the European Championship at the turn of the century, even claiming the continental title. Since then, their trajectory has shifted somewhat, but in recent years, the Czechs have consistently featured in the latter stages of the tournament.
Jan Suchopárek’s side had a tough road through qualification. They finished behind Denmark in their group and edged out Wales for a playoff spot only on tiebreakers.
In the playoffs against Belgium, the Czechs were underdogs but secured their spot in the finals thanks to an away win. In March, they played two friendlies but failed to impress: a draw with Spain and a defeat to Norway.
Their start to the Euros was disappointing. In the opening match, they faced England—the reigning champions. The Czechs put in a decent performance but ultimately fell 1-3.
Germany are traditionally among the favorites at youth tournaments. With squad depth and outstanding individual talent, the Germans are perennial medal contenders.
Over the past 16 years, Germany have lifted the U21 European Championship trophy three times, though they crashed out at the bottom of their group in the last edition.
Their qualification campaign for this tournament in Slovakia was flawless: not a single defeat and 35 goals scored, including a 10-1 thrashing of Estonia under Antonio Di Salvo’s guidance.
Germany’s first group match was a walk in the park. Die Mannschaft dominated a modest Slovenian side and cruised to a 3-0 victory. Notably, all three goals were scored by Woltemade, one of the tournament’s standout stars.
Match facts
- Czech Republic are winless in their last four matches.
- The Czechs have failed to score only once in their last seven games.
- Germany are on a three-match winning streak.
- The Germans are unbeaten for two years.
- Czech Republic average 1.2 goals per game, while Germany average 2.2.
Probable lineups
- Czech Republic U-21: Gornicek, Spacil, Prebsl, Haloupek, Gadas, Vidra, Soyka, Suchomel, Danek, Sejk, Fila.
- Germany U-21: Atubolu, Braun, Collins, Arrey-Mbi, Rosenfelder, Nebel, Martel, Reitz, Gruda, Trezoldi, Woltemade.
H2H
- Three of the last five head-to-head matches between these teams ended in draws.
- At the previous Euros, these teams were also in the same group: Czech Republic won 2-1.
Prediction
Given both teams’ attacking mindset, hunger for results, and occasional defensive lapses, we can expect a high-octane, entertaining match. Germany’s creative attack stands out, but the Czechs have shown they can respond with quick, dynamic football. The Germans are clear favorites, but the Czech side impressed against England and can put up a fight. My tip: Germany to win and under 4.5 total goals.
