Two games into Euro 2024 qualifying and Scotland are already on the cusp of an impressive achievement. Victory in Norway this weekend, and the Tartan Army will be planning a rendezvous in Deutschland next summer.
Scotland in Reach of Qualifying for Euro 2024
Blistering Start
Scotland sits proudly on top of Group A after two games. Spain were left flummoxed by a fiery Hampden Park in March, while Norway were held in Georgia. Realistically, the fight for the two automatic qualification spots is between the Scots, Spanish and Norwegians.
Two From Three
There is a natural assumption that Spain will win the group, and Scotland will compete with Norway for second. The Scots enjoy a five-point advantage over the Scandinavians, and in an eight-game shootout, that is already a sizeable lead.
Oslo Calling
He is unlikely to admit it publically, but Steve Clarke would not be disappointed by a draw in Oslo. It would enable Scotland to maintain momentum and stay in control. Clarke is a pragmatic boss, defensive discipline and solidity define his style, but even he may be seduced by the value of hunting three points.
Prize for Victory
The prize dangling for Scotland is considerable. Victory on Saturday evening will give them an eight-point lead over Norway with five games left. It would surely be an insurmountable advantage, but straightforwardness is not often associated with Scotland. Glorious failures and disappointment have become ingrained in the nation’s psyche, and a trouble-free meander toward a second major tournament in 26 years feels like an improbable scenario.
United Again
The fact Scotland have an opportunity to dismiss the Norwegian challenge is due to the hard work of the manager. Clarke has forged a club-like team spirit, and the cloud of gloom that engulfed the national team for so long has evaporated. It has allowed the Tartan Army to reconnect with the players again.
The Haaland Factor
How to deny the rampaging Erling Haaland will have consumed Clarke’s thoughts. Suggesting the centre-forward suffers from prolonged hangovers is perhaps one way for Clarke to encourage his Scotland defenders, but devising a plan to blunt the prolific marksman, who has netted 21 goals from 23 international appearances, is far from straightforward.
Same Again
Clarke is unlikely to deviate too much from the starting XI that upset Rodri and co in March. Grant Hanley’s absence at the heart of the defence is a blow, but Jack Hendry is a willing option. Beyond that, there will not be much variation. John McGinn and Ryan Christie will be tasked with ensuring Lyndon Dykes avoids isolation.
The Backup Option
Scotland entered the pitch for the first group game against Cyprus aware they had secured a play-off spot for Euro 2024 due to their Nations League performance. Such a safety net is a source of comfort, and the players have perhaps played with greater freedom with this knowledge.
Fighting Against History
There is a second chance waiting if needed. It would be typical for the backup option to be required, but Scotland, for once, may spring a surprise and avoid the scenic route.
Photo credit: Tom Hodgkinson, CC BY 2.0
