Defender Ladislav Krejčí boarded a flight to Osijek on Saturday despite receiving a red card against Spain on Thursday.
The Czech national team captain earned his second red card of the UEFA Nations League campaign during the match in Spain, which automatically triggers a suspension for the next fixture. Head coach Santi Denia defended the decision to travel with the squad.
“Reprezentace přestávka je krátká. Láďa je kapitán a velký vzor nejen pro nováčky, ale také pro všechny mladé hráče. Je to nejlepší také pro realizák a celou asociaci,” Santi Denia said.
Krejčí previously received a red card against Spain during a previous international gathering in Oviedo before the team traveled to England. Forward Adam Hložek voiced support for the captain despite the disciplinary trouble.
“Všichni za ním stojíme. V nějakých zápasech nám naopak hodně pomohl, dával góly, teď bohužel dostal červenou,” Adam Hložek said.
Pavel Šulc also failed to finish a home fixture against England due to an expulsion. Recurring red cards have hindered the national team in recent weeks, particularly against top-tier opponents.
Croatia squad members led by Luka Modrić prepared for the upcoming match in Osijek alongside the visiting Czech side. Denia stressed the need for defensive discipline and mental focus ahead of Sunday’s match.
“Nerad o červených mluvím, protože dávají soupeři výhodu. Musíme být soustředěni na každou situaci. Je potřeba dbát na mentalitu a správnou poziční hru. Máme za sebou pět dobrých zápasů a pořád jsme ve hře o třetí místo,” Santi Denia said.
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