Scots must maintain ‘good start’ to World Cup bid

Scotland’s World Cup qualifying campaign is now “good,” according to head coach Steve Clarke, but they will need to keep up the high standard of performance that caused them to draw in Denmark in the opening game.

In the first of six matches, the Scots won, hoping to qualify for the next summer’s finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with a goalless draw in Copenhagen.

Belarus, who lost their opener 5-1 to Greece, will face Clarke’s side on Monday, live on the BBC, before both teams travel to Hampden in October, along with a trip to Greece and a visit from the Danes in November.

Scotland have made a positive first step in putting an end to their long, angst-ridden run despite not hosting a men’s World Cup since 1998.

“A World Cup trip is not simple. Every single time, you must leave everything on the pitch. The players are all burst, and there isn’t much left.

“I believe Greece, Denmark, and ourselves can battle it out.” Belarus possess the ability to surprise someone. We just hope it’s not us.

With a back four and Che Adams and Lyndon Dykes and Che Adams both starting, Clarke changed his team’s configuration to suit the Danes.

The head coach recalled the humiliating 2-0 defeat in Copenhagen during the previous World Cup qualifying campaign as evidence that part of the thinking was to match Denmark’s physicality.

He said, “I can recall being camped in for almost the entire first time we came here.” We therefore identified one or two things that might help us advance the pitch.

I believe I’ve always made an effort to be flexible. Although I don’t get the headlines for it, you can occasionally be forced to adapt to the opposition, which it proved tonight.

Willie Miller, a former Scotland defender, said: “It was difficult fought. Everyone did a great job, and the organization was excellent. The forwards made a very effective defensive defense. We weren’t ever, in my opinion, ripped open at any time.

In a back four, Grant Hanley is now a favorite. You must give it to him because I thought he was outstanding. He was never exposed.

Peter Lovenkrands, a forward for Rangers and Denmark, said, “Scotland were content to sit back and fight it out.” Denmark was so put off by them.

Michael Stewart, a former Scotland midfielder, recalls “those first few games Angus Gunn played for Scotland.” He got close to them and held it well beyond that late punch. His overall performance was excellent.

G. A. Simpson: Clarke’s obedient conservative perspective. There is no pace in the first half of Adams and Dykes, despite their potential adventure. Given that they appeared jittery at the back, Dykes and Doak would have exposed the Danes to more risk and potential for clear cut chances. Nevertheless, a strong defensive performance. A good point, overall.

Keith, a great way to introduce ourselves. Yes, we didn’t engage in exciting attacking football, but we did play to our best advantage when facing a top-flight team. Significant difference between the team and Hickey and Dykes. Everyone contributed, and it only needs three points to win against Belarus to qualify as a double header.

I was anticipating a thrashing tonight, but it seems like Clarke can’t do it. I agree with Martin, but it seems like they’re doing it with some people.