Recap: Build-up to England and Scotland friendlies

Image source, Getty Images

After a victory over Gibraltar in Portugal on Monday, the Scotland squad now have the opportunity to bid farewell to their loyal fans on home ground before embarking on that plane to Germany.

For many, this tournament might feel like Scotland’s first major competition in 26 years. They did qualify for Euro 2020 but Covid restrictions denied many supporters of a chance to cheer on their heroes.

The atmosphere is set to be electric later as the players give it their best in front of an eager and excited crowd. The Scots have a near perfect record against Finland – winning six and drawing two of their previous eight meetings.

If we rewind the clock back to the 1998 World Cup, when Scotland supporters did get to follow their time en masse. That was actually the last time these two sides met. Again, in a tournament warm-up match for Craig Brown’s team, Scotland came from behind to draw 1-1 with Darren Jackson scoring the equaliser.

After the Gibraltar game, current boss Steve Clarke said his team were nervous at times. If it’s confidence the players need, then a strong, positive performance tonight will do them the world of good before heading to the Euros.