Ladislav Krejci

Analysis: Krejci opened up the scoring in Thursday's opening match, a close-range header in the 59th minute assisted by Vladimir Coufal. That lead did not last long though as South Korea dominated the final half-hour of the match and Krejci and his fellow defenders struggled to contain the attack. The goal marked Krejci's first at a major international tournament, and it came on his lone shot in the match. Given Czechia's apparent reliance on set pieces, Krejci could continue to be an important component on the attack as well as in defense.

Jun 3, 2026

Carries defensive responsibility

Krejci is the likeliest starter in his country's defense at the World Cup as he looks to build on his outstanding performance in the qualification playoffs.

Analysis: Krejci endured an inconsistent season with a struggling Wolverhampton side, but he reaffirmed his importance to the national team during Czechia's decisive World Cup playoff victories. The defender captained the squad in those matches, combining a goal with double-digit clearance tallies in each outing while leading from the back. His height and physical presence make him a major asset in aerial duels at both ends of the pitch. He's expected to anchor a three-man back line during the tournament and should serve as one of the team's emotional and tactical leaders. His combination of defensive volume and occasional goal threat gives him a well-rounded fantasy upside, and he might hold clean sheet potential mainly in the initial contests.