Czech Republic can beat strong teams like Mexico, says coach Koubek

Czech Republic coach Miroslav Koubek expressed confidence that his team is capable of defeating Mexico in their crucial World Cup match, drawing parallels to their past successes against stronger European opponents. Koubek highlighted the team's experience in the European qualifiers, where they overcame Ireland and Denmark, as proof of their ability to compete with and defeat formidable teams.

“

We learned in the qualifiers, we had experience. We must remember what we went through against Ireland and Denmark; we have defeated stronger teams, so we can also succeed against Mexico, whom we respect greatly, but we focus on ourselves. Miracles happen in football, and we are confident of winning.

"We learned in the qualifiers, we had experience. We must remember what we went through against Ireland and Denmark; we have defeated stronger teams, so we can also succeed against Mexico, whom we respect greatly, but we focus on ourselves. Miracles happen in football, and we are confident of winning," Koubek stated ahead of the game at the Estadio Azteca.

“

We are at our last chance. We are not very happy with the results. That's why now we must have greater possession of the ball because otherwise we will end up defending all the time, so it's something we must improve, have a better deployment.

Currently third in Group A with one point, the Czech Republic must win to have any chance of advancing, as Mexico has already secured six points. Koubek acknowledged that his team has not been entirely satisfied with their results, particularly the opening 2-1 loss to South Korea and the 1-1 draw with South Africa. He stressed the need for improved ball possession and a more proactive approach to avoid constant defending.

“

Mexico's strategy is not something we consider, that depends on their coach. They have very good players, they have Raúl Jiménez as a great striker, but we prefer to concentrate on our performance. We are playing against an opponent who has won six points, but we have prepared very well for this game.

While respecting Mexico's strong squad, including striker Raúl Jiménez, Koubek reiterated that the Czech team's focus remains on their own performance and strategy. Captain Ladislav Krejcí echoed the coach's sentiment, stating the team's readiness and conviction that they can defeat Mexico and advance to the next round.

“

We are ready for this. Mexico has shown individual strength and as a team, but we are convinced that we can defeat them, that is the reason why we are here, we want to advance to the next round. We know how important the match is for us. We'll see about playing at the Azteca when we step on the field tomorrow.