OLOMOUC: Czech Republic beat 10-man Moldova 3-0 to qualify for Euro 2024 after Tomas Chory scored and provided an assist on his international debut in the Group E clash.

Jaroslav Silhavy’s side struck early when Chory picked out David Doudera racing down the left flank and the defender latched onto the ball before slotting past onrushing goalkeeper Dorian Railean in the 14th minute.

Viktoria Plzen’s Chory, playing in his hometown, powered home a header from Vasil Kusej’s corner in the 72nd before captain Tomas Soucek got the third goal just before the end.

Moldova, who had defender Vladislav Baboglo sent off 10 minutes after halftime for a second yellow card, posed problems for the Czechs early on but lacked a clinical finish.

The Czechs played without full back Vladimir Coufal, central defender Jakub Brabec and forward Jan Kuchta, who were sent home for violating team rules after being photographed in a nightclub before the match. All three started Friday’s 1-1 draw in Poland.

The Czech victory means the 1996 runners-up will play in their eighth successive Euros after finishing second, level on 15 points with Albania who have a better head-to-head record.

In the other match Faroe Islands secured only their second point of the campaign with a 0-0 draw away against Group E winners Albania.

The hosts struggled to break down their resilient opponents, who had to substitute goalkeeper Mattias Lamhauge after a collision with team mate Ari Jonsson in the first half.

Faroe Islands had their best chance after halftime when Joannes Bjartalid unleashed a shot from outside the box, but the ball was deflected wide, denying the visitors a chance for a famous victory.

Albania finished top of Group E with 15 points, level with Czech Republic in second who advanced after a 3-0 win over 10-man Moldova. Poland, in third, can look for a place in the play-offs. Faroe Islands finished bottom of the group.

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