Euro '96 marked the first European Championship for the newly formed Czech Republic, with the team entering as outsiders. Midfielder Patrik Berger revealed that even Germany's Jürgen Kohler didn't know the Czechs were competing, asking him if he was 'going to watch games' when Berger said he was 'playing you guys'. The Czechs lost 2-0 to Germany at Old Trafford, then beat Italy 2-1 at Anfield and drew 3-3 with Russia to advance.

Karel Poborsky's stunning scoop goal against Portugal and a 6-5 penalty shootout victory over France in the semi-finals captivated the nation. In the final at Wembley, Berger scored the Czechs' only goal after stepping up as no one else wanted to take the penalty, but Oliver Bierhoff's golden goal secured Germany's win. Berger called it 'a miracle' that opened doors for players including himself and future Ballon d'Or winner Pavel Nedved.

Two days before the final, Smicer returned to Prague for his wedding, where thousands celebrated before he flew back to England.