Czechs see off Portugal

Czech Republic began their preparations for this summer’s UEFA European Under-21 Championship finals with a stylish 3-1 victory over Portugal.

Early strike
The Czechs were in control early on in Porto on Tuesday, taking the lead in the fifth minute when Martin Horak poked the ball home from a corner. It set the tone for an exciting encounter with both sides showing a willingness to attack.

Superb free-kick
However the visitors had to wait until the hour mark to double their advantage through second-half substitute Michal Pospísil. Portugal forced their way back into the game two minutes later through Hélder Postiga’s goal after a swift counter-attack. But David Kobylík dashed Portuguese hopes with a superbly-executed free-kick in the 70th minute.

Fitzel pleased
It was a result that delighted Czech coach Dusan Fitzel. "I am satisfied with the result because Portugal are a very good opponent for our preparations before the finals," he said.