The Czech First League (Championship Group) is living up to its billing. The rivalry between the two Prague giants has never been more tactical. "In these derbies, the first goal is usually the final goal," said a Slavia midfielder.
The current trend in the Czech Liga is the 'compact block'. Teams are successfully limiting the space between the defensive and midfield lines, forcing creative players to move into wider areas where they are less effective. This has led to a season where set-pieces have become the primary weapon for the top contenders.