The Daily Star Ireland
Scotland welcomes Greece to Hampden Park for a crucial World Championship 2026 qualifier that could have major implications in Group C. Steve Clarke’s side has started the campaign with purpose, while Greece under Gus Poyet have shown grit and balance in their early fixtures. With both teams targeting momentum and qualification confidence, this clash in Glasgow promises intensity, discipline, and fine tactical margins.
Match Preview
Scotland enters this matchup unbeaten in their opening two qualifiers, following a composed 2–0 victory over Belarus and a solid goalless draw against Denmark. Head coach Steve Clarke has maintained squad stability, naming a lean 23-man group focused on consistency. The big story is the return of veteran goalkeeper Craig Gordon, who brings leadership and experience back between the posts after recovering from injury.
Midfield remains Scotland’s engine. Scott McTominay, in outstanding form with Napoli, provides drive and control, while John McGinn—now on the verge of 80 international caps—offers creativity and leadership. Kieran Tierney and Andy Robertson’s return from fitness issues further strengthens the backline, allowing Clarke to revert to his trusted three-at-the-back system with dynamic wing-backs providing width.
Up front, Che Adams continues to lead the line, supported by Ryan Christie’s movement and McGinn’s late runs into the box. Although Clarke opted against recalling in-form attackers like Oli Burke and Lawrence Shankland, the team’s cohesion and defensive resilience remain key assets heading into this test.
Team Form & Recent Results
Scotland (Last 5 matches): W D W D L
Greece (Last 5 matches): D W L W D
Scotland’s home form at Hampden has been a strength, with five clean sheets in their last seven fixtures across competitions. Greece, meanwhile, have been tough to break down under Gus Poyet, losing only one of their last six matches. However, they’ve struggled for consistency in front of goal, often relying on narrow scorelines to grind out points.
Head-to-Head Record
The historical balance favors Greece slightly, though recent meetings have been few and far between. Their last encounter in 2018 ended in a 1–0 win for the Greeks, but Scotland’s form and tactical evolution since then suggest a far tighter contest this time.
Lineups, Injuries & Suspensions
Scotland (3-4-2-1 expected): Gordon – Hendry, McKenna, Tierney – Patterson, McTominay, McGinn, Robertson – Christie, Armstrong – Adams
Unavailable: None major reported
Greece (4-3-3 expected): Vlachodimos – Baldock, Retsos, Hatzidiakos, Tsimikas – Mantalos, Siopis, Bouchalakis – Masouras, Pavlidis, Bakasetas
Unavailable: Giakoumakis (injured), Fortounis (doubtful)
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Scotland’s approach will hinge on high pressing, patient buildup, and exploiting set pieces—a trademark of Clarke’s tenure. McTominay’s late surges and Robertson’s overlapping runs are likely to create danger, while Adams’ link-up play could prove decisive against Greece’s deep defensive line.
For Greece, compact shape and quick transitions remain central to Poyet’s system. Kostas Tsimikas’ deliveries from the left and Vangelis Pavlidis’ sharp positioning in the final third are their primary weapons. Expect them to sit deep early and look to strike through counterattacks when Scotland commits bodies forward.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
- Full-Time Result: Scotland (1.85) | Draw (3.30) | Greece (4.50)
- Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Under 2.5 (1.60)
- Both Teams to Score: No (1.55)
Betting insights:
- Scotland have seen under 2.5 goals in 14 of their last 17 home matches.
- Greece’s last 8 away qualifiers have produced two goals or fewer.
- Clarke’s side has scored first in 5 of their last 6 competitive home games.
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Venue: Hampden Park, Glasgow
Date & Time: October 9, 2025 – 19:45 BST
Broadcast: Viaplay Sports, Nova Sports, UEFA.tv (international streaming)
Prediction: Scotland vs Greece, World Championship 2026 Qualifiers
Both sides boast solid defensive structures and pragmatic tactical setups, suggesting a low-scoring contest. Scotland’s home advantage and set-piece threat should tip the balance, but Greece’s organization will make them difficult to break down. Expect a tight, hard-fought match decided by a single moment of quality—possibly from McTominay or McGinn.
