The face-off between Czech Republic and Croatia in Group C of Euro 2016 at the Stade Geoffroy Guichard, Saint-Etienne, is here. From a distance, it looks like Croatia is on a high after the win against Turkey and the Czechs are downbeat after the defeat against Spain. But the match could turn out to be a tricky one for Croatia as well. If they lose this match, their last group match against Spain could prove crucial. They would not want to take that to the next level. With a game against Turkey in hand, Czech Republic can even afford a draw.

The bookmakers side with Croatia. A Croatian win has odds of 5/6 with bet365 and a Czech win has odds of 4/1.

Czech Republic

This is the first time these two teams are meeting in a competitive fixture. There have been two friendly matches between these sides. Croatia won the most recent one 4-2, in 2011.

Czech Repubic was a timid against Spain, committing several of their midfield players to assist defenders. Even Tomas Rosicky played in a more withdrawn position. Much is expected from winger Pavel Kaderabek as well. The team needs to control its tendency to play more defensively.

Croatia

Croatia is gung-ho after the initial win over Turkey. Another win is all they need to qualify for the next round. Their overreliance on Luka Modric is bit of a worry. So far, nothing has gone wrong. If Modric has an off day, it is going to be tough for Croaia.

Czech Republic - Croatia match facts

• Skipper Darijo Srna has come back to the team after attending his father's funeral back home.
• Verdun Corluka, who suffered a blood-oozing head injury, is expected to play in this, is expected to play in this crucial match.

Czech Republic - Croatia betting tips

The best bet seems to a draw (with odds of 13/5 for a draw). Croatia did not appear unbeatable in the opening fixture. Had Turkey scored an opening goal, things would have been much different.