This is it.
Scotland’s two-decade long spell in the international wilderness is over. When Andy Robertson leads his Scotland side out at Hampden for their opening Group D game against the Czech Republic, our Euro 2020 campaign will be underway.
But what can we expect? Let’s dig into the key points in our match preview.
Scotland Squad
We have dug into the background and stories surrounding each player here. It’s a really exciting squad, built for this summer but also with an eye to the future – with the inclusion of exciting teenage talents Nathan Patterson & Billy Gilmour.
Scotland Form
Scotland arrive at Euro 2020 in buoyant form. Taking the lead twice in the first warm up game against the Netherlands, Clarke’s side were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw.
In the next, a 1-0 was secured with Che Adams’ second Scotland goal in four caps.
The Czech Republic
James Scott has broken down the Czech squad, their form, strengths and weaknesses in this detailed article.
Tomas Danicek from Czech Footy spoke to The Tartan Scarf Podcast to give a Czech insight into their squad and perspective on ours. You can listen to that interview below.
Record v Czech Republic
Played 9, Won 4, Drawn 1, Lost 4
Interestingly Scotland are unbeaten in the last four against the Czechs – winning three and drawing one – including home and away wins in the 20/21 Nations League.
Predicted 11
Given Clarke’s consistency of selection and tactics it would be very surprising to see a starting 11 much different to our prediction.
There have been calls for Chelsea’s boy wonder Billy Gilmour to start, despite his clear abilities it would be a shock to see him start.
Clarke will be aware that he has five substitutes at his disposal – meaning a change of approach / system could be possible. This starting 11 would leave considerable pace / creativity on the bench in the form of Forrest, Fraser, Patterson and Armstrong to take advantage of tiring legs late on.
Prediction
As we did with the Playoff Final in Belgrade, I can’t predict we will win. I know for absolute certainty that we can win.
If Scotland go out and play the game, not the occasion, then we have every chance. This Czech team is not the standard of past generations.
We arrive at Hampden with earned confidence of a cracking set of players, an astute manager and a tactical plan that can deliver.
If you’re not in the mood yet – watch this video collaboration between our friend Alba / Matter & the Scottish FA and feel the fire of anticipation rise within you.
Prediction Score – Scotland 1-0 Czech Republic