Here is every pot 4 team in the World Cup 2026 draw ranked by difficulty. Cr: Getty Images.placeholder image
Here is every pot 4 team in the World Cup 2026 draw ranked by difficulty. Cr: Getty Images. | Getty Images

Scotland's World Cup Draw: Every pot 4 team ranked by difficultly - the grudge match, the new boys and one to avoid

By Graham Falk

Sports Writer

Published 4th Dec 2025, 16:39 GMT

Here is every pot 4 team in the World Cup 2026 draw ranked on difficulty, from easiest to most difficult.

Scotland’s 28-year wait to qualify for the World Cup was finally ended last month when their memorable 4-2 win over Denmark saw them top their group and gain a direct passage to next summer’s tournament.

Set to take place across USA, Mexico, and Canada, Steve Clarke’s side won’t have to wait anywhere near as long to discover who they will face at the competition, with the draw set to take place at the Kennedy Center in the American capital of Washington DC on Friday, December 5.

With Scotland placed in pot 3 of the draw, they know they will face a nation from pot 1, pot 2, and pot 4 - but which nations would be the most difficult to face?

Here, The Scotsman rank every pot 4 team in the World Cup 2026 draw ranked on difficulty, from easiest to most difficult. Do you agree with our rankings?

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All four nations cause their own problems, but if Scotland are to land a UEFA playoff team, this may be the most favourable.

9. Slovakia/Kosovo/Türkiye/Romania (Difficulty rating: 6)

All four nations cause their own problems, but if Scotland are to land a UEFA playoff team, this may be the most favourable. | AFP via Getty Images

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Another UEFA playoff draw that presents a host of difficult tests. Ukraine pack plenty quality throughout their side, Sweden's attacking force is one to be reckoned with, and both Poland and Albania are no slouches. Scotland have the ability to beat any of them, but they are clearly easier games.

10. Ukraine/Sweden/Poland/Albania (Difficulty rating: 6)

Another UEFA playoff draw that presents a host of difficult tests. Ukraine pack plenty quality throughout their side, Sweden's attacking force is one to be reckoned with, and both Poland and Albania are no slouches. Scotland have the ability to beat any of them, but they are clearly easier games. | AFP via Getty Images

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While North Macedonia would be a slightly easier tie, a clash with Ireland or Czech Republic would be tough. As for a rematch with Denmark? Another set of playoff possibilities that Scotland will hope to steer clear of.

11. Czech Republic/Denmark/Republic of Ireland/North Macedonia (Difficulty rating: 7)

While North Macedonia would be a slightly easier tie, a clash with Ireland or Czech Republic would be tough. As for a rematch with Denmark? Another set of playoff possibilities that Scotland will hope to steer clear of. | AFP via Getty Images

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Italy are the favourites to qualify via the UEFA playoffs are would be a daunting task for Scotland, though a home nations draw against one of Northern Ireland or Wales would also be tough. A pot 4 draw Scotland will hope to avoid.

12. Wales/Italy/Bosnia/Northern Ireland (Difficulty rating: 7)

Italy are the favourites to qualify via the UEFA playoffs are would be a daunting task for Scotland, though a home nations draw against one of Northern Ireland or Wales would also be tough. A pot 4 draw Scotland will hope to avoid. | AFP via Getty Images

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