Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the World Cup qualifying match.
The match in Podgorica carries significant weight in the battle for second place in Group L, because first looks virtually reserved for Croatia. Montenegro are trailing, but a favourable result could pull the team closer to the frontrunners. The Czech Republic, despite a heavy defeat against Croatia, remain firmly at the top of the standings and travel in search of points.
Montenegro
Montenegro opened the qualifiers with expected wins over Gibraltar and the Faroe Islands, but both matches were nervy. The team conceded against Gibraltar and scored only once against the Faroe Islands. The main hopes rest on forward Nikola Krstović, who moved to Atalanta BC, as well as veterans Stevan Jovetić and Stefan Savić. Robert Prosinečki is in charge. However, the overall level of the team remains limited — Montenegro lost 0:2 to the Czech Republic in the reverse fixture without much of a chance.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic started strongly and only collapsed against Croatia in a 1:5 thumping. Even so, they have taken nine points from four matches and lead the group. Against weaker opponents they have been assured, with eight goals scored and just one conceded. Patrik Schick has already scored four times, while Tomáš Souček of West Ham United dictates the game in midfield. It is important that the visitors have experienced top-level players who can grind out results even when the display is not sparkling.
Montenegro vs Czech Republic Prediction
Both teams tend to play cautiously and do not usually produce high-scoring contests. The Czech Republic look preferable on quality and cohesion, but away from home they are unlikely to commit large numbers forward. Montenegro will try to keep it tight and keep a clean sheet. A narrow away win or a draw looks the most likely outcome.
