'It Cannot Be Otherwise' — Group A Rivals Czechia Fume Over Shock WC Prep

Czechia national team coach Miroslav Koubek has insisted that his side will not dwell on any negativity despite being forced to make last-minute adjustments to their preparations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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The Representatives will begin their Group A campaign against South Korea on Friday, but their build-up to the tournament opener has been far from ideal.

Why Did Czechia Change Their World Cup Base?

According to the national team's official website, Czechia are based near Dallas but travelled to Guadalajara, Mexico, on the recommendation of experts just one day before their clash with the Taegeuk Warriors.

The move was made to help the squad acclimatise to conditions at an altitude of almost 1 600 metres above sea level, with the team having to adapt quickly before stepping onto the world stage.

Addressing the situation, Koubek made it clear that his side are focused on finding solutions rather than excuses.

"The conditions that were assigned to us as one of the last participants in the championship are as they are. I was told that it cannot be otherwise, so we accept it," Koubek said.

How Are Czechia Preparing For High-Altitude Conditions?

The experienced tactician admitted that the altitude presents a challenge, but believes the team has done everything possible to minimise its impact.

"High altitude is already evergreen. We know that certain things are going against us in this regard. But we are determined not to entertain any negative thoughts and doubts," he added.

"We have taken many measures to prepare the team for higher altitudes even in these conditions. We will see to what extent we have succeeded."

Son Heung-min Identified As South Korea's Biggest Threat

While adapting to the conditions remains a key focus, Czechia are also preparing for the challenge posed by a talented South Korean side.

Koubek singled out captain Son Heung-min as one of the major dangers his team will have to contain.

"He is a big name in world football, he has achieved so much. We know that he is a legend in Korea, hats off to him," the coach said.

Despite his admiration for Son, Koubek stressed that Czechia's preparations are not centred on one player alone, highlighting the overall quality within South Korea's attacking unit.

"In general, Korea has quality in offensive positions, that is where the greatest danger lies for us.

"But this team has already played against other stars of world football and has also managed to cope, most recently with Denmark. So I trust the boys to be able to cover the excellent Korean strikers."

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With South Africa and hosts Mexico also lurking in Group A, both Czechia and South Korea will be eager to get their World Cup campaigns off to a winning start.