Darida Returns, Višinský Called Up as Czech Republic Prepares for World Cup Playoff

Prague – The Czech Republic national team has announced its squad for the crucial World Cup playoff matches in March, marking a significant return for veteran midfielder Vladimír Darida and a first-time call-up for rising talent Denis Višinský. The team faces a challenging path to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The Czechs will first host the Republic of Ireland on March 26th at Fortuna Arena (Eden Stadium) in Prague. A victory would set up a second playoff match five days later at epet ARENA (Letná Stadium) against the winner of the Denmark-North Macedonia tie. Should the Czech Republic falter in the first match, they will face the loser of that Denmark-North Macedonia contest, with no further opportunity to qualify for the tournament. The current squad list numbers 25 players, a blend of experience and emerging talent.

The most notable inclusion is undoubtedly Vladimír Darida, who hasn’t featured for the national team since a quarterfinal appearance against Denmark at the UEFA European Championship in July 2021. The 35-year-old midfielder has been a driving force for Hradec Králové this season, and coach Miroslav Koubek has welcomed his experience and leadership. Darida currently has 76 caps and 8 international goals for the Czech Republic, and this recall offers him the chance to add to those impressive numbers.

Alongside Darida’s return, the squad also welcomes a new face in Denis Višinský, a midfielder from Viktoria Plzeň. Višinský’s inclusion represents an opportunity for the young player to make his mark on the international stage. Another midfielder, Pavel Bucha, who currently plays for Cincinnati FC in Major League Soccer, is also in contention for his first senior appearance, having been previously called up in October 2021 but not seeing game time against Belarus.

Both Višinský and Bucha bring a wealth of experience from youth international levels, including participation in the UEFA U-21 Championship. They will be eager to translate that success to the senior team. Braga goalkeeper Lukáš Horníček, who was previously called into a squad last October but didn’t play, also receives another opportunity. Forward Jan Kliment of Olomouc is back in the fold after a year’s absence.

The domestic-based players began gathering in Prague on Thursday, March 19th, with the Czech First League pausing its schedule to allow players to join the national team. The full squad, including those playing abroad, is expected to assemble in Prague on Monday, March 23rd.

Several players are unavailable for selection due to injury. According to reports, defenders David Zima, Jan Douděra, Václav Jemelka, and Matěj Ryneš are all sidelined. Attackers Matěj Vydra and Adam Hložek are also unavailable, as are goalkeepers Jindřich Staněk and Vítězslav Jaroš. Pavel Šulc, whose fitness has been a concern, has also been included in the squad, with his availability dependent on his club Lyon’s assessment. Šulc has been recovering from a muscle injury sustained in February.

Coach Koubek has emphasized the importance of Darida’s return, highlighting his experience and leadership qualities. The veteran midfielder’s decision to answer the call-up demonstrates a commitment to helping the team achieve its goal of reaching the World Cup.

The Czech Republic hasn’t qualified for the World Cup in 20 years, and this playoff represents a golden opportunity to end that drought. The stakes are high, and the team will need to perform at its best to overcome the challenges ahead. The matches against Ireland and potentially Denmark or North Macedonia will be played in front of passionate home crowds, providing a significant boost to the team’s morale.

Players Jaroslav Zelený and Jan Kliment will not be available for Thursday’s training session due to their club commitments in the UEFA Europa Conference League.

The Czech Republic’s path to the World Cup is far from guaranteed, but with a blend of experienced players like Darida and exciting newcomers like Višinský, coach Koubek has assembled a squad capable of achieving the seemingly impossible. The nation will be watching with anticipation as they embark on this crucial playoff journey.

The first leg against Ireland on March 26th will be a pivotal moment. A positive result will set the stage for a thrilling showdown against either Denmark or North Macedonia, with a place at the 2026 World Cup hanging in the balance. Fans can follow all the latest updates and team news on the official Czech Football Association website.