WROCLAW, June 7: The Czech Republic will draw on memories of impressive runs at past tournaments while Russia are looking to show their semi-final appearance in 2008 was no fluke when they clash in their Euro 2012 Group A opener in Wroclaw on Friday.  

The Czechs, who lost to Germany in the Euro 1996 final and reached the semi-finals in 2004, are determined to re-establish themselves as a force in European football after slipping to 26 in the FIFA world rankings.

With a mix of experienced players led by Arsenal's Tomas Rosicky and Chelsea's Petr Cech, along with a raft of newcomers, the Czechs are optimistic of at least progressing from what should be a tightly-contested group also featuring co-hosts Poland and Greece.

“A success at the championship in summer would be great,” Cech said. “I would be really grateful if I could win a medal with the national team.”

Their major concern is over the fitness of striker Milan Baros who limped out of training on Tuesday with a thigh problem. Captain Rosicky had been a doubt but he resumed full training on Monday following a calf problem.

The Russians, coached by Dick Advocaat in his first and last tournament, are unbeaten in 14 matches and thrashed Italy 3-0 in a Euro warm-up last Friday.—Reuters