World Cup 2026: Czechia in 3-4-2-1 against Mexico’s 4-3-3 at Estadio Azteca

The teams are lining up in distinct formations with strong tactical identities — Miroslav Koubek has chosen a 3-4-2-1 for Czechia, while Javier Aguirre has opted for an attacking 4-3-3 for Mexico. This tactical duel will be decisive in moving closer to qualification for the next round.

Individually, Czechia will have to cope without David Jurásek, who is ruled out through injury. Mexico, meanwhile, will be without the suspended César Montes. Those absences affect the defensive choices of both head coaches.

The official lineups show that each team is banking on a balance between experience and youth. This high-stakes match will largely determine the balance of power in Group A, especially in relation to South Africa and South Korea.

Reading Czechia’s XI

Czechia will play in a 3-4-2-1 under Miroslav Koubek. Matěj Kovář will be in goal, protected by a back three made up of Tomáš Holeš, Robin Hranáč and Ladislav Krejčí. The midfield is set up in a diamond shape with Vladimír Coufal, Michal Sadílek, Lukáš Červ and David Douděra on the flanks. Pavel Šulc and Denis Višinský will operate behind the attack, providing creativity and drive in support of Adam Hložek, the lone striker.

This setup allows Czechia to combine defensive solidity with attacking flexibility. The absence of David Jurásek influences the decision to use a reinforced central defense. The attacking tandem behind Hložek will aim to unsettle the Mexican defense with runs and quick combinations.

Reading Mexico’s XI

Javier Aguirre’s Mexico are relying on a classic 4-3-3 formation, with Raúl Rangel in goal. The defense will line up with Jorge Sánchez, Israel Reyes, César Montes and Mateo Chávez, although César Montes is suspended, which could change the central pairing.

In midfield, balance will be provided by Gilberto Mora, Edson Álvarez and Luis Romo. In attack, Roberto Alvarado, Guillermo Martínez and Julián Quiñones will make up the front three. This system encourages ball control and quick transitions on the counterattack.

The Mexican coach’s choices reflect a desire for attacking expansion while maintaining a solid protective layer in midfield. The selection of players with versatile profiles will encourage tactical adjustments during the match.