Scotland will look to arrest an alarming run of results this weekend as they continue their Nations League campaign with a daunting trip to Portugal.
Thursday’s return to competitive action against Poland saw Scotland begin the new season in the same way their Euro 2024 campaign ended, with the Tartan Army were sent home bitterly disappointed as an injury time winner handed their opponents a last gasp 3-2 victory at Hampden Park.
The result meant Scotland have now officially gone an entire calendar year without a competitive win, having not tasted victory since a 3-0 thumping of Cyprus on 8 September 2023. With the small matter of Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal next on the agenda, Steve Clarke must somehow find a way to halt an alarming run of results.
There are selection headaches for the Scottish head coach heading into the clash too. Ben Doak and Lawrence Shankland both impressed off the bench in Thursday’s defeat to Poland, while Clarke could also plot changes in defence too, following the poor performances of both Grant Hanley and Anthony Ralston in midweek. Could he move back to a back three?
Here’s how The Scotsman predict the team will line up against Portugal on Sunday.
5. LB: Andy Robertson
The captain will lead his team out in Lisbon this weekend. | SNS Group
6. CM: Billy Gilmour
Was excellent in the second-half against Poland at Hampden. The Napoli midfielder is now one of Scotland's most important players, so will almost certainly start against a star studded Portugal team. | SNS Group
7. CM: Scott McTominay
He's the nation's best player at present. Played a more advanced role during the week, but could drop deeper alongside Billy Gilmour as Clarke looks to use his energy and physical presence against a strong Portugal midfield. | SNS Group
8. RM: John McGinn
Steve Clarke likes to play an advanced midfield three behind his striker, with McGinn playing on the right-hand side of it. He'll be hoping for an improved performance from the Aston Villa ace though, who was quiet again on Thursday. | SNS Group