Czech display gives Twardzik hope

Czech Republic defender Filip Twardzik admits it was his mistake that led to the Turkey goal in the 1-1 draw that leaves his side with a lot to do to reach the UEFA European Under-17 Championship semi-finals – but told UEFA.com that a repeat of the team's performance when they play Greece on Monday will take them through.

Twardzik's slip allowed Artun Akçakin in to put Turkey ahead early in the second half on Friday only for Roman Haša to equalise with ten minutes left. The Czech Republic are three points adrift of second-placed Turkey in Group B, with a goal difference deficit to make up even if they catch them after the last games, but Twardzik is hopeful despite leaving themselves with it all to do against eliminated Greece.

"It was not a bad performance, but I made one mistake in the game," Twardzik said. "I am a defender, and it led to the goal. So not so good." However, he added: "I think we can reach the semi-finals if we play as well against Greece as we did against Turkey."

Certainly, the Celtic FC centre-back believes they took a step forward after losing 3-1 to England in their opener. "I think we played well [against Turkey] and we could have got another goal, but we weren't able to score it," he said. "I think we moved the ball better compared to the England game and generally played stronger."

Having to get through the hard way is no new experience for the Czech Republic, as in the elite round they began by losing to Georgia only to then beat Ukraine and the Netherlands to pip the Dutch to the finals in Liechtenstein. "The atmosphere in the team is good, everyone is pushing each other forward," Twardzik said. "It is nearly the same situation as against the Netherlands, we had to come out and beat the Netherlands in the last game, and we have to do that again. I think we are a strong team and we can do it."

Along with his twin brother and fellow Czech squad member, striker Patrik, Filip has been with Celtic since a February 2009 move from Hertha BSC Berlin. "I've learnt a lot at Celtic and am a stronger player," Twardzik said. "I've learn how to improve physically, how to move the ball quickly."

Playing alongside his sibling is also important to him. "It is good to have him on the same side," Filip said. "We like being on the same team, I can't imagine that he would be at a different club, we have to play together."