Czech Republic blanks Denmark 42–0 to secure European Championship fifth-place berth

The Czech national team bounced back from a disappointing loss to Switzerland with a commanding 42–0 shutout of visiting Denmark, securing second place in its group and a spot in the fifth-through-eighth-place classification round of the 2026–27 IFAF Men’s European Championship.

With starting quarterback Amos Feranc sidelined by injury, Vít Bezecný stepped into the spotlight and delivered a composed performance, while the Czech defense and special teams made life miserable for the Danes.

Czech Republic establishes early control

The hosts wasted little time asserting themselves. Adam Žouželka broke through the middle for a 48-yard touchdown run, giving the Czech Republic an early 6–0 advantage.

The defense soon added two points when Jakub Smutný tackled a Danish ball carrier in the end zone for a safety.

Bezecný then showcased his mobility, scoring on a 20-yard keeper to extend the lead to 15–0.

The replacement quarterback was equally effective through the air, connecting with Josef Janota for a 24-yard touchdown before finding him again from 10 yards out following a František Stolár interception.

The Czechs entered halftime firmly in command, 29–0.

Defense and special teams seal the shutout

Any hopes of a Danish comeback disappeared on the opening possession of the second half.

Bezecný orchestrated a seven-minute drive, capping it with a touchdown pass to Matěj Šlehofer, who made an acrobatic catch while keeping one foot inbounds.

Adam Antoš then blocked a Denmark punt and recovered the loose ball in the end zone, pushing the advantage to 42–0.

The Danes nearly salvaged something when Noah Klavsen scooped up a blocked extra point and raced toward the opposite end zone. However, Jakub Rada chased him down 10 yards short, preserving the shutout.

Hubert Kvaček later intercepted quarterback Christensen to extinguish Denmark’s final scoring opportunity.

Fifth-place competition awaits

The victory sends the Czech Republic into the European Championship’s fifth-through-eighth-place round alongside Great Britain, Hungary and Türkiye.

Competition resumes on the first weekend of August 2027.

For the Czechs, the emphatic response to their earlier defeat demonstrated that, even without their starting quarterback, they possess the depth and defensive discipline to compete for fifth place in Europe.