Widely recognised as the world's best goalkeeper, Petr Cech will be a key figure in the Czech Republic's bid to progress from a tough group in Germany. He started his career with FK Chmel Blsany, but made his name following his 700,000 euros move to Sparta Prague, where he went 1,120 minutes without conceding a goal in domestic and Champions League football in autumn 2001. His form earned him a five million euros switch to French side Rennes and a full international debut the following year. Cech was one of the stars of his country's run to the semi-finals of Euro 2004 before making a 10.3 million euros move to Chelsea, where his command of the box and athletic shot-stopping have been major factors in the Blues' back-to-back Premiership titles.