Date: October 13, 2014
Venue: Astana Arena, Astana, Kazakhstan
Kick-off time: 17:00 BST
The Group A qualifying fixture between Kazakhstan and Czech Republic may be a mismatch on paper but no one can rule the hosts out after a strong performance against Netherlands. With the home team as the underdogs, this is one match that can go anyway.
Czech Republic are at the top of the group with two wins from their two fixtures while Kazakhstan are in fourth with 1 point from their opening two games.
Kazakhstan form: L-D-W-W-L
The former Soviet Republic does not possess great European pedigree – their European journey is limited to only two Euro qualifying campaigns. It is safe to say that they do not have great expectations from this campaign either.
The home team fought well against Netherlands and looked the better side till Huntelaar came as a substitute and changed the complexion. With just a point from their earlier draw against fellow strugglers Latvia, it is a huge task to Kazakhstan to move into qualifying places.
Czech Republic form: W-W-L-L-D
Competing as an independent nation for just 20 years now, Czech Republic have qualified for every European Championship in that period. It speaks a lot about their pedigree and consistency at this level.
Czech started the campaign with a sensational win against Netherlands followed by a victory in Turkey. The mood in the camp is upbeat who now believe that qualification is possible.
Key Players
Kazakhstan: Renat Abdulin
The defender was the scorer and also a penalty-giver for Kazakhstan against the Dutch. He needs to put in a tidy shift if the hosts have any hopes of keeping the Czechs at bay.
Czech Republic: Borek Dockal
With one goal each from both the matches, the midfielder is slowly turning to be a key player for the visitors. Expect another high class performance from the energetic playmaker.
Betting Advice
Czech Republic are in good form and should win (1.5 with BetVictor) this game by at least a couple of goals. More than 2.5 goals is at 2.05 with bet365.