As Scotland’s prepares to embark on their Euro 2024 campaign, the nation is brimming with quiet optimism following an impressive qualifying performance. The Tartan Army boasts a squad filled with Premier League experience, with the likes of John McGinn, Scott McTominay, and Andy Robertson expected to play pivotal roles in their success. These seasoned players will be instrumental in guiding Scotland through the challenges that lie ahead in the tournament.
While the squad possesses a wealth of talent, the question remains whether they have the depth and quality to make a significant impact on the European stage. Scotland’s hopes will heavily rely on the performances of their star players, particularly Scott McTominay, who emerged as a prolific goalscorer during the qualifiers. His ability to find the back of the net could prove crucial in determining Scotland’s fate in the tournament.
The Road to Euro 2024
Scotland’s journey to Euro 2024 was nothing short of remarkable. They secured a second-place finish in their qualifying group, behind Spain, thanks to a string of impressive performances. The highlight of their campaign was undoubtedly the stunning 2-0 victory against Luis de la Fuente’s Spanish side, with Scott McTominay netting a memorable brace. Scotland’s consistency throughout the qualifiers, which included wins against Norway, Georgia, and Cyprus, has instilled a sense of belief within the team and the nation.
Reaching back-to-back Euros for the first time since the 1990s is a testament to the progress made by the Scottish national team. The achievement not only showcases their growth and development but also serves as a source of pride for the passionate Tartan Army. As they prepare to face the challenges that await them in Germany, Scotland will draw inspiration from their successful qualifying campaign and the unwavering support of their fans.
Group A and Scotland’s Prospects
Scotland finds itself in Group A, alongside hosts Germany, Switzerland, and Hungary. The opening match against Germany is seen as a bit of a free hit for the Scots, given the formidable nature of their opponents. However, they will be acutely aware of the importance of securing positive results in their remaining group fixtures. The matches against Switzerland and Hungary will be critical in determining Scotland’s chances of progressing to the knockout stages.
While reaching the Last 16 seems to be a realistic target for Scotland, their ability to advance further in the tournament will largely depend on the performances of their rivals. If the other teams in Group A underperform, Scotland could potentially seize the opportunity to make a deeper run in the competition. However, the focus for Steve Clark and his men will be to take each game as it comes, give their all on the pitch, and make their nation proud with their displays at Euro 2024.
SCOTLAND EURO 2024 FIXTURES & SCHEDULE
Group A
Friday June 14: Germany v Scotland – 8pm (Munich – Munich Football Arena)
Wednesday June 19: Scotland v Switzerland – 8pm (Cologne – Cologne Stadium)
Sunday June 23: Scotland v Hungary – 8pm (Stuttgart – Stuttgart Arena)
SCOTLAND EURO 2024 SQUAD
Clarke will confirm his final Scotland squad ahead of the June 6 deadline. Below is his preliminary squad.
GOALKEEPERS: Zander Clark, Craig Gordon, Angus Gunn, Liam Kelly
DEFENDERS: Liam Cooper, Grant Hanley, Jack Hendry, Ross McCrorie, Scott McKenna, Ryan Porteous, Anthony Ralston, Andy Robertson, John Souttar, Greg Taylor, Kieran Tierney
MIDFIELDERS: Stuart Armstrong, Ryan Christie, Billy Gilmour, Ryan Jack, Kenny McLean, John McGinn, Callum McGregor, Scott McTominay
FORWARDS: Che Adams, Ben Doak, Lyndon Dykes, James Forrest, Lawrence Shankland
