Steve Clarke’s plans were heavily disrupted by injury and COVID-19 in the camp in the build-up to the semi-final win over Israel, but Scotland shrugged it off to force their way through two hours of football and a penalty shoot-out success.
Serbia too went to extra-time and saw off Norway for the one-off showdown in the Balkans to decide who will participate in next summer’s European Championship.
However there’s also the question of who will participate in Steve Clarke’s big game on November 12, and with a host of returning players, the manager will have a selection headache of a positive kind to pick in his recent 3-5-2 formation.
He’ll have options to select, options on the bench and of course options to change his formation and tactics, if injury is kind over the next few weeks. Here’s a look at those who might be involved in Belgrade.
13. Scott McTominay - MC/CDM/CB/RB
Scotland's utility man could slot in anywhere across the defence or midfield - as he has done so for Steve Clarke. Could be preferred over Ryan Jack in the middle or at the back. He's stuck to the task for the manager and the manager may choose to stick by his versatility or utilise it from the bench. Photo: Alan Harvey - SNS Group
14. Steven Naismith - MR/CF
The veteran may be plying his trade in the Championship but he will still be a consideration for the manager now the season is up and running at Hearts. An experienced head to turn to off the bench. Photo: Alan Harvey - SNS Group
15. Liam Palmer - DC/DR
Could be an option for the right-side of defence and looked set to be involved against Israel before injury ruled him out. A squad option and could be used depending on the system selected for Serbia. Photo: Alan Harvey - SNS Group
16. Lyndon Dykes - CF
Another who provides an alternative dimension depending on the system, the QPR man was frustrated against Israel, but impressed earlier in his Scotland career and his size and strength could pose questions of Serbia. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group