West Ham United midfielder Tomáš Souček reached a significant milestone for his country as he skippered Czech Republic to a 2-2 draw against Spain.
Six years on from debuting as a 21-year-old, he took to the field at Prague’s Sinobo Stadium on Sunday to earn his 50th senior cap.
And while the home side could not quite hang on for a memorable victory over their illustrious opponents – they twice led and were only pegged back in second half stoppage-time, Souček was still satisfied with his team’s efforts as they maintained their undefeated start to their UEFA Nations League campaign.
"I think we did exactly what we said in the locker room,” he explained at full time. “We wanted to fight at all costs as one team. It worked. Our euphoria after the win over Switzerland also played a role.
"We all helped each other, we filled the spaces one after the other and we fought as a team. It wasn't just about us midfielders, but we all helped each other.
“Of course we will take four points [from the opening two matches], although we were disappointed immediately after the match.
“But it sounds beautiful to be disappointed after a draw with Spain. We will continue to fight.”
Czech Republic are level on points with Group A2 leaders Portugal after their opening two Nations League fixtures, and travel to Lisbon to take on the group-toppers in their next match on Wednesday.