Czechs climb into contention

The Czech Republic revived their hopes of reaching this summer's finals of the UEFA European Under-19 Championship with a 2-0 victory against Croatia in Sardice.

Three points required
Having suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of the Netherlands in the opening round of Elite round Group 2, Josef Pesice's side mini-tournament hosts knew that victory at the Sardice stadium was essential if they were to have a realistic chance of progressing to the final tournament, which will be played in Northern Ireland in July.

Perfect start
The Czechs made the prefect start against a side defeated 3-0 by Germany two days ago, winning a penalty in only the fourth minute. Although defender Petr Cigánek was unable to convert the spot-kick, Czech striker Jan Schulmeister reacted quickest to reach the rebound first and turn the loose ball into the net. The three points were secured 12 minutes into the second half, FK Teplice midfield player Martin Fenin chipping in the second.

Midfield injuries
The Czechs round off their campaign against Germany on Wednesday, when victory will again be needed to keep alive their hopes of progressing - although midfield pair Michal Svec and Jan Šimunek will both miss that game with ankle and thigh injuries respectively. Croatia, meanwhile, are still without a point and cannot now finish top of the section, although they will be eager to finish their campaign with a win against the Dutch.