England thrashed the Czech Republic in their previous Euro 2020 Group A qualifier 5-0. Now, the Three Lions are on the verge of Euro tournament qualification and Gareth Southgate is aiming for a big away victory on Friday night.
England have been perfect in Euro 2020 qualifying thus far collecting 12 points from 12 possible. The Three Lions have played one fewer game compared to the other teams in Group A meaning they can clinch progression during the international break.
The Czech Republic were humiliated against England at Wembley in their previous meeting this year. Despite the heavy loss, manager Jaroslav Silhavy has led the Czech Republic to second place in Group A and three points behind England.
Silhavy’s team can reel in England and move level on points with a win in Prague. However, due to the massive goal difference, it is unlikely they would pull ahead of the Three Lions.
Southgate will be without midfielder Fabian Delph after the Everton player pulled out of the squad due to a hamstring injury. The manager did not replace Delph in the squad choosing to use the midfielders he already selected.
Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham could get his first-ever England cap. The striker was called into the squad along with Bournemouth’s Callum Wilson. The two strikers have been in great form for their club teams and could be deployed as Harry Kane alternatives.
Southgate has also called midfielder James Maddison into the team courtesy of his performances at Leicester City. Defender John Stones was not called into the squad due to injury.
Silhavy’s squad is made up of a large number of Czech Republic domestic players. The team contains 12 players from the Czech Republic professional football league.
Promising striker Patrik Schick has been called into the team from Germany’s RB Leipzig. However, Schick has started the season slowly for the Germans with little action in the Bundesliga. Meanwhile, Vladimir Darida of Hertha Berlin will wear the captain’s armband.
England have been strong in Euro 2020 Group A qualifying. They have scored 19 times and conceded just four goals. All four of England’s games thus far saw over 2.5 goals scored.
Friday night’s match in Prague should once again see the Three Lions win although it won’t be by the 5-0 scoreline from earlier this year. England will pick up the victory with both teams scoring and over 2.5 goals scored.