TIPS - Czech Republic VS Croatia

[(Czech Republic) Strength]:
1. Czech Republic played two matches in September, securing a convincing 2-0 victory over Montenegro in the qualifiers and drawing 1-1 with Saudi Arabia in a friendly, delivering a fairly solid performance.
2. Czech Republic currently have the same number of points as group leaders Croatia, despite having played one more game. This indicates that they have a chance of finishing top of the group and securing direct qualification.
3. Czech Republic have scored at least 2 goals in each of the last 6 official home matches, showing good offensive firepower.

[(Czech Republic) Neutral]:
1. Czech Republic have got 4 wins and 1 loss in the last 5 group matches—demonstrating a strong tendency to decisively settle outcomes.
2. Czech Republic have alternated wins or losses in the last 4 matches in AH with unstable performances.

[(Czech Republic) Weakness]:
1. Czech Republic's latest squad will be without star player Patrik Schick, which will give a huge blow to their offensive end. The Bayer Leverkusen striker sustained an injury during a league match against St. Pauli in September and is expected to be out for some time.

[(Croatia) Strength]:
1. Croatia's latest squad still features a majority of familiar faces, with star players such as Luka Modric, Ivan Perisic, and Mateo Kovacic all included.
2. Croatia have won all their first 4 group matches, with 17 goals scored and 1 goal conceded, showing strong dominance on both ends.
3. In September, Croatia played two qualifying matches, securing a 1-0 victory over the Faroe Islands followed by an impressive 4-0 win against Montenegro, demonstrating strong form.
4. Croatia are ranked 9th in the World, far ahead of Czech Republic.
5. Croatia hammered Czech Republic 5-1 in their first group encounter at home, grabbing the advantage.
6. Croatia have won 3 of their last 4 matches in AH with a good trend.

[(Croatia) Neutral]:
1. Croatia are currently the group leaders, with the same points as Czech Republic behind them, so the result of this match is crucial.

[Tips]:
Czech Republic defeated Montenegro 2-0 in September's World Cup qualifier, earning three vital points to maintain close pursuit of Croatia in the group standings.

Playing at home in this upcoming match, they remain confident in delivering another strong performance.

Meanwhile, Croatia have begun their qualifying campaign in exceptional form, winning all four of their matches so far while excelling both offensively and defensively.

Despite Czech Republic's impressive home record, the bookmakers do not reflect significant favoritism toward them.

Given Croatia's higher world ranking and consistent dominance, they may be the side worth backing in this encounter.

[Recommended]:
Croatia (0)