The Football Faithful
·15 November 2024
The Football Faithful
·15 November 2024
Scotland host Croatia in the UEFA Nations League tonight looking to end their recent troubled form.
The Tartan Army have given a good account of themselves in the Nations League without earning the required results, taking just one point from four games. That has extended their run to just one win in 16 internationals and Steve Clarke’s side must summon a response against Croatia to avoid potential relegation from the top tier.
Scotland’s FIFA ranking is also at stake, a scenario which could impact the difficulty of their draw for 2026 World Cup qualification.
Scotland lost in Croatia with a depleted side last month but come into this contest in stronger shape.
John McGinn returns in a big boost to Steve Clarke, though Che Adams is out after missing the Turin derby for Torino at the weekend. Lyndon Dykes is the frontrunner to replace Adams, though Tommy Conway and Lawrence Shankland offer alternatives.
Scott McTominay scored against Inter Milan at the weekend to continue his superb start at Napoli and the midfielder us likely to be joined by McGinn and club teammate Billy Gilmour in the engine room.
Ben Doak impressed on his first start in Croatia in October and is in line for another opportunity. The 19-year-old has four goal involvements in eight starts on loan at Middlesbrough this season.
Scotland predicted XI: Gordon; Ralston, Souttar, Hendry, Robertson; McLean, Gilmour; McGinn, McTominay, Doak; Dykes.
Scotland host Croatia in the UEFA Nations League on Friday 15th November 2024. Kick-off at Hampden Park is 19:45 GMT.
Viaplay will show the game and have the rights to all of Scotland’s competitive games until 2028.