Scotland head coach Steve Clarke hopes that retaining top-tier standing within the Nations League will “set down a marker” for 2026 World Cup qualifying.
The Scots lead Greece 1-0 heading into Sunday’s play-off second leg, with the winner securing a spot in Nations League A for the 2026/27 marketing campaign.
Scott McTominay’s spot-kick within the first leg helped Scotland change into simply the third aspect to win in Greece in 4 years after England and the Netherlands.
“Instead of having four friendlies leading in a World Cup qualifier, we actually have two games in March, and they mean a lot,” stated Clarke.
“I feel as particular person gamers we have improved at this degree. We perceive what it takes to win a recreation at this degree.
“Obviously, we’ve got the one-goal lead from the first leg, but we’re going to set up and try and win the game. Hopefully set a marker down for the World Cup (qualifying) games coming up.”
“I can think about they will attempt to replicate what they did within the second half on the market and put us below a little bit of stress.
“They’re a team that play very aggressive football, they want to get forward, they want to score goals. They’re not interested in sitting in and defending.”
McTominay, McGinn and McLean set for landmark caps
Match-winner McTominay will earn his sixtieth Scotland cap if chosen, with team-mates John McGinn and Kenny McLean additionally set to rejoice milestones of 75 and 50 caps respectively.
The Scotland boss recognises the significance of getting such expertise in his squad as his aspect look to maintain their place amongst Europe’s elite in Nations League A.
“That was one of the things that I set out quite early in my reign as head coach, to get a core group of players who would be capped,” added Clarke.
“As I mentioned before the game the other night, Greece away is a difficult place to go, not many teams go there and win.
“I identified the rationale that we give them cap after cap after cap is in order that after we come to these troublesome video games, they perceive what they need to do, and people three are simply three of many on quite a few caps now.
“But for me, in my head, I want to win this tie. Hopefully, it’s going to be difficult for Greece tomorrow and it’s going to be difficult when they come back for the World Cup qualifiers.”
