After a tough World Cup qualifying campaign, Scotland, unfortunately, came undone in their playoff game against Ukraine at Hampden Park. This was the first time since 1998 that the country had failed to make it to the tournament.
But redemption could be on the horizon for Scotland, although they have failed to secure a place in Qatar, they can still qualify for the finals of Euro 2024. Football moves fast, you don’t get to dwell on one thing for too long, it’s what is good and bad about the sport.
Scotland will kick off their qualification campaign in March but they have been placed in a very tough group. Of the four teams, only Cyprus offers a favourable match-up. It is the other three who could potentially de-rail their campaign.
Spain
One of the world’s best footballing nations, Spain has an incredible pedigree in the sport. Although they have struggled to replicate the form that saw them lift the World Cup in 2010 and the Euro in 2008 and 2012, they have regained their form.
With a fast, dynamic and possession-based style, Spain is the king of keeping the ball. With young talent like Pedri and Gavi complimenting their more experienced players, they are a side bubbling with quality.
Their rejuvenation hasn’t gone unnoticed, bookmakers put them at 13/2 to win the World Cup outright, the best odds for a European side. If you’re questioning the South Americans’ ability and looking to bet on World Cup outright odds, then Spain is a great option.
Norway
Although not a team you would immediately associate with football, Norway currently has the world’s best player. Erling Haaland has wasted no time finding his feet in the Premier League, scoring at will and on track to break almost every record in the book.
The Manchester City striker improves every team that he is in and is only among a handful of players who can win a match on his own. But Halaand isn’t on his own, he has Martin Odegaard to supply him with the chances he craves.
Combined they make for a deadly duo, who can unlock and punish any defence.
Georgia
You might roll your eyes at this small footballing nation but Georgia can put it to Scotland.
It was to nobody’s surprise when they finished at the top of their Nations League group. With five wins and one draw in six games, they have improved dramatically over the past few years.
The upturn in their form can be credited to their new breakout star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who has flourished in his first season with Napoli. Coming in off the left wing, the 21-year-old will be giving fullbacks nightmares, as Trent Alexander Arnold found out.
With his threat of the wing and their young dynamic squad, they will be rivalling Scotland for the qualification spot.
Scotland has been unlucky with injuries and came within a hair of the World Cup. They are in for a tough test to make it to Euro 2024 but if they can hold their own against these teams, they are in with a chance.