The Czech Republic women’s national football team is drawing inspiration from the recent success of their male counterparts as they continue their quest to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Head coach Jitka Klimková emphasized the powerful effect the men’s qualification for a major tournament has had on the entire program, fueling a renewed sense of belief and determination within the squad. The team faces crucial upcoming matches against Montenegro and, later, a pivotal clash with Wales.
“After the win and qualification of the men’s A-team for the World Cup, we all felt enormous emotions,” Klimková said at a recent press conference announcing the latest squad. “It was amazing, breathtaking and at the same time inspiring. This example perfectly illustrates the importance of teamwork, fighting spirit, and belief in success. I must also mention the support of the fans.”
Riding the Wave of National Pride
The Czech men’s team secured their spot in a major tournament – a feat that hadn’t been achieved in decades – sparking celebrations across the country. That momentum, Klimková believes, is now palpable within the women’s program. The team is looking to build on their current second-place standing in their qualifying group, hoping to replicate the men’s success and reach the World Cup in Brazil. Sport.cz reported on the outpouring of national pride following the men’s qualification, a sentiment Klimková hopes to harness.
“We want to be inspired by this in our qualification process,” Klimková explained. “We grasp that we will face strong opponents, but we also believe that with teamwork, determination, and a common goal, One can succeed and qualify for the World Cup in Brazil. The men’s team is a great inspiration to us in this regard.”
Upcoming Challenges and a New Face in the Squad
The Czech women’s team, nicknamed the “Lionesses” (Lvice), will hold their second training camp of the year in preparation for a double-header against Montenegro. They will first host Montenegro in Chomutov on April 14th, followed by the return fixture on Balkan soil four days later. These matches represent a critical juncture in their qualifying campaign.
Currently, the Czech Republic holds second place in their qualifying group, having drawn 2-2 with group leaders Wales and convincingly defeated Albania 5-1. Following the Montenegro matches, they are scheduled to face Albania at home and a crucial away match against Wales, which could remarkably well determine their fate.
Klimková has also introduced a new player to the national team setup: 21-year-aged Andrea Švíbková, who currently plays for LASK Linz in Austria. Švíbková’s inclusion reflects Klimková’s commitment to integrating emerging talent into the squad.
Squad Composition and Key Players
The coach highlighted the blend of experience and emerging talent within the squad. “The nomination includes established players from domestic and foreign leagues, all of whom we carefully monitor in their clubs,” Klimková stated. “We were impressed by the performances of midfielder Nela Krejčířová from Liberec, and Andrea Švíbková is also making her debut in the nomination. She is a regular member of the starting lineup in Linz, can score goals, and is a key player for the under-23 national team.”
Ženské podání s Jitkou KlimkovouVideo: Sport.cz
Full Squad List:
- Goalkeepers: Vanesa Jílková (Slavia Praha), Olivie Lukášová (AS Roma), Barbora Votíková (Arsenal)
- Defenders: Eva Bartoňová (Sparta Praha), Lucie Bendová (Slavia Praha), Aneta Dědinová (Slovan Liberec), Aneta Pochmanová (Sparta Praha), Eliška Sonntagová (Sparta Praha), Denisa Tenkrátová (Slovan Liberec), Denisa Veselá (Slavia Praha)
- Midfielders: Klára Cahynová (Real Sociedad), Franny Černá (Sparta Praha), Kamila Dubcová (Slavia Praha), Kateřina Kotrčová (Sparta Praha), Nela Krejčířová (Slovan Liberec), Antonie Stárová (Sparta Praha)
- Forwards: Klára Cvrčková (Slavia Praha), Michaela Khýrová (Sparta Praha), Aneta Polášková (Norimberk), Andrea Stašková (Fenerbahce), Sabina Střížová (Slovácko), Jana Žufánková (Slavia Praha), Andrea Švíbková (LASK Linz)
Looking Ahead
The upcoming matches against Montenegro will be a significant test for Klimková’s team. A positive result in these games will be crucial as they navigate the remaining challenges in their qualifying group. The team’s ability to translate the inspiring momentum from the men’s team into tangible results on the pitch will be closely watched by fans and observers alike. The next step for the Lionesses is clear: focus on preparation and execute their game plan in Chomutov on April 14th.
What are your thoughts on the Czech Republic women’s national team’s chances of qualifying for the World Cup? Share your predictions and support in the comments below.
