Russia v Czech Republic: Czechs need creativity to have hopes of progress

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Must do better: Tomas Rosicky failed to shine against an energetic Russian midfield.©SNS Group

What started as a promising Euro 2012 debut for the Czech Republic soon descended into a nightmare situation for Michal Bilek’s side as they were left embarrassed, dejected and with a mountain to climb following a resounding 4-1 defeat at the hands of the Russians.

From the first blow of the whistle the Czechs enjoyed a comfortable spell which lasted the better part of 15 minutes.

During this time the team controlled the game, playing at their tempo and passing the ball well, but tellingly the Czechs could not create any clear chances during. The door was left wide open therefore for Russia to take all the time they needed to settle in.

What followed was a revival of the Russian’s Euro 2008 form, with Andrei Arshavin’s performance sure to have Arsenal’s fans reeling, after effectively pushing him out the door. Although Dick Advocaat’s men were good, they were hugely assisted by an uncharacteristically poor Czech defence. In particular, defender Michal Kadlec had what can only be described as a shocker. The Czech man usually plays centre back but was deployed in the left position against Russia where he notably struggled in several aspects.

Kadlec’s rash decision to regularly run lengthy distances out of position was responsible for creating the space that led to both first-half goals scored by Russia.

After Konstantin Zyryanov found the space on the right wing a fantastic Russian move ensued, which led to Alan Dzagoev’s opening goal, and Kadlec’s repeated absence from the left back area almost handed Dzagoev a second goal shortly after this. When the defender failed to track back after attacking on 24 minutes, Roman Shirokov found himself free in the box and his cheeky dink saw Russia two up before the break.

This scenario is not ideal under any circumstances, but it is particularly frustrating because the Czech defence was supposedly solid, conceding just eight goals in qualifying.

On the attacking front, Bilek’s men did, however, show signs of promise, particularly from the duo of wingman Vaclac Pilar and defensive midfielder Petr Jiracek. Whilst at times the side frustrated in the final third by settling for unambitious aerial balls into the Russian box, Jiracek and Pilar introduced more creative tactics, taking on defenders to reach dangerous positions.

When Pilar linked up with Plasil for the goal it was the first time the Czechs has broken through their opponent’s defensive line, and one of the rare times they played down the centre instead of looking wide for the cross. This may be a point to consider for Bilak if the nation continues to struggle to convert.

With veterans Tomas Rosicky and Milan Baros contributing very little to the game it was unlikely that the Czechs were going to regularly find the net, and the Czech support needs these big names find their form for the next fixture.

Two wins from the next two games would seem essential if the Czechs are to progress, and without improvement it seems like this target is unrealistic. Bilek must tighten his defence and sharpen his attack.

If he cannot do this it will be an early flight home for the Czech Republic.

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