Scotland are set to host Croatia at Hampden Park on Friday, and both teams come into the Nations League fixture with contrasting ambitions. Scotland are battling to avoid relegation from League A, requiring at least four points from their final two games to have a chance, while Croatia, currently second in Group 1, look to secure a quarter-final spot with another win.
The Scottish side, struggling at the bottom of their group, found a moment of relief in their last outing with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Portugal, though their winless streak on home turf extends to six matches.
Croatia, meanwhile, have been in good form, with seven points in four games, and a victory here would put them within reach of the knockout rounds. They’ve shown a consistent scoring ability, averaging two goals per game on the road, making them a formidable threat in Glasgow.
Scotland Team News
Scotland will have some reinforcements in defence and midfield as John McGinn and Jack Hendry return, and Stuart Armstrong has recovered in time to join the squad.
However, the hosts face a challenge up front with Torino’s Che Adams out due to a thigh injury. This leaves manager Steve Clarke with options between Tommy Conway, Lyndon Dykes, and Lawrence Shankland. Dykes, who has yet to score this season in League One, may see the start with support from McGinn and Scott McTominay in the midfield.
Elsewhere, veteran goalkeeper Craig Gordon, standing in for the injured Angus Gunn, will again be key for Scotland as they look to contain Croatia’s potent attack. Billy Gilmour’s inclusion in midfield alongside McTominay will also be pivotal as the pair attempt to contain Luka Modric.
Scotland Predicted Lineup to Face Croatia
Gordon; Ralston, Souttar, Hendry, Robertson; McLean, Gilmour; McGinn, McTominay, Doak; Dykes
Croatia Team News
Croatia, missing Lovro Majer and Bruno Petkovic, will rely on their experienced midfield led by Modric and supported by Mateo Kovacic. With Dominik Livakovic suspended, Nediljko Labrovic is expected to start in goal, providing his skills as they look to stave off Scottish efforts.
Igor Matanovic and Andrej Kramaric will spearhead the attack, with Ivan Perisic offering width on the left and Borna Sosa likely to assist from a wing-back role.
Croatia’s recent record against Scotland is favourable, and they’ll be looking to break their winless record at Hampden Park with an eye on sealing quarter-final qualification.
Croatia Predicted Lineup to Face Scotland
Labrovic; Sutalo, Caleta-Car, Gvardiol; Perisic, Modric, Kovacic, Sosa; Baturina, Kramaric; Matanovic
Scotland 
Croatia 
