Ahead of the Euro 2024 qualifiers, Scotland acknowledges the valuable lessons learned from their previous setbacks against Ukraine and the Republic of Ireland last Summer.
The defeat to Ukraine at Hampden combined with their disappointing 3-0 loss to Republic of Ireland in the Nations League was a reality check for the Scotland hopeful.
As they approach the upcoming qualifiers, Scotland, currently at the top in their group will endure a tough test against Norway, facing Halland and co away from home before facing Georgia who have proven to be awkward in the past for the Tartan army. Two wins from these games would certainly cement Scotland as favourites to qualify from the group.
‘Our preparation going into these games is a lot better. When the seasons ended all at different times, players went off on holiday and did various things and we only had a small group to work with. So we decided to learn from our mistakes.’
John Carver, Scotland assistant manager
With the exception of those who competed in cup finals, the majority of players participated in an intense five-day training camp which included double training sessions. This rigorous preparation has instilled confidence in Scotland’s head coach, John Carver, who believes his team is fully prepared for the upcoming matches against Norway in Oslo on Saturday and the subsequent game at Hampden Park on Tuesday.
There has been significant discussion surrounding Scotland’s strategy to contain the threat posed by Erling Halaand who was instrumental in Manchester City’s historic treble. In addition, there has also been focus on Martin Odegaard who was certainly one of Arsenal’s best performers last season.
‘These guys are at their best when they are playing against the best. We’ve got two really tough games coming up. We’ve got a tough group to get out of, but it certainly helps when you\ve done we did and got six points from the first two games. It is quite incredible – we’ve got ourselves in a great position. This could be a good time for Scottish football.’
John Carver, Scotland assistant manager
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