Czech Republic vs Turkey Euro 2024 Group F Preview

All eyes will be on the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg tonight, where the Czech Republic takes on Turkey in a crucial Group F encounter. With both teams vying for a spot in the knockout stages, the stakes couldn't be higher.

The Czech Republic finds itself in a precarious position. A win is mandatory to secure their place in the last-16, but the big question mark hanging over the team is the fitness of their talisman, Patrik Schick. The Bayer Leverkusen striker, who lit up Euro 2020 with five stunning goals, went off injured during their 1-1 draw against Georgia. Czech coach Ivan Hasek remains hopeful but cautious: "Schick is a key player, one of the top scorers in Europe. If he's not ready, somebody will have to step up."

Indeed, Schick's absence would be a massive blow. The forward has scored six of the Czech Republic's last eight goals at the Euros, underlining his importance to the team. Should he fail to recover in time, the likes of Jan Kuchta and Mojmir Chytil will have to shoulder the scoring burden alongside Adam Hlozek.

On the other side, Turkey sits second in the group with three points. A draw would be sufficient for them to progress, but defender Kaan Ayhan and his teammates are aiming for more. "Now, we can emulate that historic victory at Euro 2008," Ayhan reminisced, recalling their famous comeback win against the Czech Republic that propelled Turkey to the semi-finals. "Here in Germany, in front of such amazing fans, we want to take the same path."

Turkey's campaign has had its ups and downs. A solid win against Georgia gave them a good start, but a defeat against Portugal has left them needing at least a point to ensure progression. The Turkish squad, led by key figures such as Hakan Calhanoglu and Enes Unal, will be looking to replicate past successes and secure their place in the knockout stages.

History favours Turkey in this fixture. The Turks have won their last three encounters against the Czech Republic, including a 2-1 victory in a friendly in 2022 and memorable matches at Euro 2008 and Euro 2016. However, the Czechs will draw inspiration from their ability to surprise on the big stage, as they did by reaching the quarter-finals of Euro 2020.

Fans can expect a thrilling and tense affair. Both teams have shown moments of brilliance and vulnerability in their previous games. The Czech Republic will need to be more clinical in front of goal, especially if they dominate possession and create as many chances as they did against Georgia. Turkey, on the other hand, will aim to be solid at the back while exploiting any defensive frailties in the Czech line-up.

The match kicks off at 20:00 BST and will be broadcast live on ITV. For those who prefer radio, full match commentary will be available on BBC Radio 5 Live. Fans can also follow live text updates on the BBC Sport website and app.

Given the stakes and the form of both teams, predicting the outcome is no easy task. The Czech Republic's need for a win versus Turkey's relative comfort with a draw sets the stage for an intriguing tactical battle. If Schick is fit to start, the Czech Republic might just edge it. However, a resilient Turkish side could well defend stoutly and snatch a draw, which would be enough for them to advance.

Football is a game of fine margins, and tonight's encounter promises to be a gripping, nerve-wracking spectacle. Who will rise to the occasion and secure their place in the last-16? We'll find out under the lights of Hamburg's Volksparkstadion.