The battle for second place in Euro 2024 Group F intensifies as Czech Republic and Turkey face off at Hamburg’s Volksparkstadion on Wednesday.

The Czechs need a win while the Turkish side has a 94% chance of qualification without a ball being kicked.

READ: Who is Arda Guler? The 18-year-old ‘Turkish Messi’ Wanted by Europe’s Biggest Clubs

by Goal Impact Photo

Czech Republic Seeks Redemption

The Czechs, seeking to recapture the magic of their Euro 2020 run, need a win and some help from fate. Patrik Schick’s equalizer against Georgia salvaged a point after they fell behind to a first-half penalty. Victory over Turkey is a must, but they also require Georgia to lose to Portugal for a guaranteed second-place finish.

Drawing Not Enough for Czechs

A draw leaves their Euro 2024 dreams hanging by a thread, while a defeat sends them packing. Despite a recent friendly winning streak, their competitive form is concerning, with only four wins in their last 15 matches. Historically, they haven’t fared well either, winning just once in their last eight European Championship group games.

Turkey Seeks Historic Third Win

Turkey, buoyed by their past successes against the Czechs, aims for a third straight Euro victory over their opponents. They triumphed 3-2 in 2008 and 2-0 in 2016, both in their final group matches. Winning in Hamburg secures their place in the knockout stages, and a large Turkish fanbase in Germany is expected to create a vibrant atmosphere.

Avoiding Defeat Enough for Turkey

Even a draw is enough for Turkey to progress, needing only Georgia to lose or draw against Portugal. This would be their first knockout stage appearance since their remarkable run to the Euro 2008 semifinals.

Additionally, even with a defeat the Turkish side are very likely to book a place as one of the best third placed finishing sides.

Rebounding from Portugal Setback

Despite a heavy defeat to Portugal in their last match, Turkey has momentum on their side after a convincing win over Georgia in their opener. They’ve also lost only three of their last 16 competitive fixtures.

Vincenzo Montella rested star players Arda Guler and Kenan Yildiz against Portugal so both will be fit and recharged heading into the game if he decides to use them.

The Turkish side came under heavy criticism following the manner of the defeat against Portugal but are still in a great position to qualify.