Lukáš Horníček praises Luka Modrić after Czech match under Santi Denia

A Tactical Shift Under Pressure

The fixture marked a notable test for the Czech side, who adjusted their shape on the pitch after confronting early pressure from a formidable Croatian lineup. Horníček, reflecting on the encounter, detailed how the squad attempted to execute their tactical game plan by retaining possession before Croatia’s sustained pressure forced defensive adjustments at halftime.

“I think we got off to a good start in the match,” Horníček said. “We did exactly what we had prepared, trying to keep the ball. Of course, Croatia showed their strength and managed to push us back. At halftime, however, we talked about how we should react and were able to break out of the block better.”

Centimetres Deny Momentum

That structural recovery faced an immediate setback after the break when Croatia broke the deadlock. Although the Czechs sought an immediate response, a subsequent attacking effort was overturned by a narrow offside call by a matter of centimetres, halting the team’s momentum.

“You’re right, it brought us down,” Horníček noted regarding the opening goal. “Even though we were able to respond, our joy at the second goal was spoiled by an offside by a few centimetres. It ruined our momentum. In the end, though, I am terribly proud of the team and we all know we have something to build on.”

A Two-Hour Notice and Team Unity

For Horníček, the path to the starting lineup materialized unexpectedly. The goalkeeper revealed he received confirmation of his selection just two hours before kickoff, a deliberate delay by the coaching staff designed to keep the entire roster sharp and focused.

“Two hours before the match. The coach kept us waiting,” Horníček explained. “It’s a bit unusual, but I think it helped us. Everyone was on their toes. You could see the players who came off the bench were ready to help the team.”

The atmosphere within the national team camp under Denia has helped ease the pressure of high-stakes international competition, according to the goalkeeper. He credited the manager with fostering a tight-knit environment.

“I must say that Santi has set a good atmosphere,” Horníček said. “Everything clicked. Everyone is talking to each other and we are a really good bunch. As the new coach says, we are a big family. We fight for each other and that is exactly how we should stick together for the rest of the Nations League.”

Containing Modrić and Perišić

Facing elite opposition brought unique challenges, chief among them trying to contain veteran midfielder Luka Modrić. The Real Madrid stalwart proved to be the decisive factor on the pitch.

“He is a madman and a god at the same time!” Horníček said of Modrić. “A really great footballer. You can see that he played for Real Madrid for many years and his quality cannot be denied. He is still an incredible player and he was a difference-maker this time too.”

Defensive duties also required vigilance against veteran winger Ivan Perišić. Horníček credited teammate Vladimír Coufal with shouldering much of the direct responsibility against the Croatian attacker.

“I’m glad I didn’t have to play directly against him,” Horníček said of Perišić. “I didn’t have such problems with him. Vláďa Coufal defended him well, although of course lasting against such a quality player the whole time is almost impossible. He showed what is in him.”

Crucial Pinball Finish

The decisive second goal for Croatia came through Mario Pašalić following a delivery from Perišić, a sequence that saw the ball deflect awkwardly through Horníček’s legs.

“Really just a tiny bit,” Horníček said ruefully of the incident. “It was a bit like pinball. It bounced off my legs twice. Unfortunately, it went into the goal. I had bad luck.”

With upcoming fixtures on the horizon, including a match against England, squad selections remain undecided. Horníček indicated that the coaching staff will review the tape before determining the lineup for the next test.

“It remains open, we’ll see,” Horníček said regarding his chances of starting against England. “I think the coach will review the match and see who will suit him for the next duel. Each of us is a different type of player after all.”