Prediction: Scotland vs Russia

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 11/5

Bookmaker: bet365

The international break is upon us, and that means one thing: well, it means more than one thing, but mainly it means that we’re all going to get the chance to see how international football has changed in the last few months. As is always the case the most interesting continent to watch at this moment in time is Europe, with the qualification period for UEFA Euro 2020 being underway. The game we’re going to be taking a look at today will see Scotland go head to head with last year’s World Cup hosts Russia.

Scotland

The Scots have a few really strong individual stars, but it’s no secret that the state of Scottish football hasn’t exactly been great over the course of the last, well, few decades. It seems as if they could be starting to turn a corner which is more than can be said of their last few eras, generations and managers, but that’s easier said than done. If they can put in a few important performances during the qualifiers, then the sky truly could be the limit for them – in comparison to their recent achievements.

Team News

Hanley and Palmer withdrew from the squad, and with McKenna and Tierney being out, they’re short on options. Naismith and McBurnie will almost certainly feature.

Russia

The Russians are living off the glory of the run they were able to put together at the World Cup last year, but when you take away the momentum they created for themselves after that, there isn’t all too much to get excited about. They’ve got one or two decent stars that can make a true impact as and when is required, but we’d argue that’s about it. They’ve got a decent chance at qualifying for the Euros, but we’d be surprised to see them go as far as some of their overly optimistic fans are expecting.

Team News

Miranchuk withdrew from the squad, with Cheryshev being tipped to feature as Russia continue to chase Belgium in their group.

Factors to Consider

• In their last two competitive meetings, the two nations drew 1-1 and 0-0.
• Scotland have won two and lost two of their last four games.
• Russia have won three and lost one of their last four games.
• Scotland have scored four goals and conceded seven in qualification.
• Russia have scored 15 goals and conceded three in qualification.

Conclusion

It’s odd, but we just have this feeling that Scotland are one or two interesting results away from really kickstarting as a unit. We think they’re going to get a positive result at Hampden Park. Russia aren’t the same team that made their way all the way through to the quarter finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and they aren’t going to be as intimidating as a lot of Scots may think. If they can get off to a strong start then there’s every chance that they can get a much needed point on the board.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 11/5

Bookmaker: bet365