COACH: Michal Bilek

WORLD RANKING: 26

QUALIFIED: Through playoffs

BEST EURO FINISH: Runners-up (1996)

FORMATION: 4-2-3-1

PLAYING STYLE: Passing

STRONGEST LINE-UP:

STRENGTHS: Since their independence, the Czechs have qualified for every European Championships – that experience could be vital.

WEAKNESSES: Their star names are getting old and their youngsters aren’t yet good enough.

TEAM RATING:

STAR PLAYER:

Petr Cech

Position: Keeper 

Age: 29 

Club: Chelsea

Cech was the world’s best keeper five years ago, and while he’s failed to reach those heights consistently since, his big game experience will be crucial to organizing the Czech backline.

Key stat: He’s made 163 saves for Chelsea this season

THE CAPTAIN:

Tomas Rosicky

The 31-year-old Arsenal midfielder knits everything together for the Czechs in the middle of the pitch.

CZECH REP. FACTS:

Capital: Prague
Population: 10.5 million
Official language: Czech
Best ever player: Pavel Nedved

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