**Two West Ham players could face off on Tuesday in a battle for World Cup qualification.**
Tomáš Souček and Mads Hermansen could both feature when Czechia face Denmark in the all-important clash in Prague.
The winner of Tuesday night’s game will earn a spot in this summer’s World Cup after reaching the play-off final in their qualifying path.
Souček’s Czechia beat Ireland on penalties last Thursday after the sides drew 2-2 in extra time. Controversy surrounded the Hammer as he surprisingly started the game on the bench.
Big Tom has been stripped of his nation’s captaincy and does not appear popular with new boss Miroslav Koubek. However, he came on at half-time in the encounter and scored in the shootout that sent his country through.
Hermansen made his debut in Denmark’s 4-0 win over North Macedonia. It was a risk to throw a goalkeeper into his debut on such an important occasion, but Hermansen proved his worth in what was a fairly comprehensive victory.
Considering the performances they put in for their sides in the play-off semi-finals, it’s very possible that Souček and Hermansen will face each other when their nations meet on Tuesday.
Qualifying would be a huge achievement for both players, as neither has ever played on football’s grandest stage.
Hermansen is obviously very new to the Danish senior team, and Souček has never played at the World Cup despite collecting 87 caps for his country.
Czechia haven’t qualified for a World Cup in 20 years. They were knocked out at the group stage in a group that was topped by eventual winners Italy.
The Danes competed in the last World Cup in Qatar, where they were also knocked out in the group stages.
Although the game is huge for both players, it may be even bigger for Souček. At 31, this is the last time the Hammers’ No. 28 will be able to qualify for the World Cup while in his prime – it could be his final chance full stop.
Qualification would be huge for Hermansen, but at 25, there’s still time for him to play at the World Cup at a high level, even if Denmark don’t make it this time.
The match kicks off at the epet ARENA in Prague at 7:45pm on Tuesday night.