Jaroslav Köstl Steps Up: Czechs Face Crucial World Cup Qualifier

Jaroslav Köstl, the interim coach for the Czech Republic, will lead the team in their crucial World Cup qualifier against Gibraltar. Köstl, previously an assistant to Ivan Hašek, steps up following Hašek's dismissal. The team aims to secure a playoff spot by winning this match.

Jaroslav Köstl has been appointed as the interim coach for the Czech Republic's crucial World Cup qualifier against Gibraltar, announced the Czech Football Association. Köstl steps into the role following the dismissal of previous coach Ivan Hašek after a stunning loss to the Faroe Islands.

In addition to the qualifier on November 17, Köstl will guide the national team in a friendly against San Marino, scheduled for November 13. The Czech Football Association has also indicated plans to appoint a foreign coach for a more permanent position thereafter.

The stakes are high for the Czech team as they can still qualify for the 2026 World Cup. A victory over Gibraltar would secure them a position in the European playoffs, set to take place in March.

(With inputs from agencies.)