SCOTLAND have a tough test tonight in Seville as they chase Euro 2024 qualification against Spain.
Simply avoiding defeat is all Steve Clarke’s side need to secure a spot in Germany next summer – but that’s easier said than done against the former World Champions.
Kenny RamsayAndy Robertson had to be replaced[/caption]
And their task got even harder after 44 minutes.
Tartan Army hero and Scotland captain Andy Robertson is so often the talisman, but his team-mates will have to do without their skipper after he was forced off.
He collided with the Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon as they contested a high ball and landed heavily on his shoulder.
After staying down the Liverpool defender had to be given treatment and led off by the Scottish medical team with concern for his condition.
Nathan Patterson replaced him with a few minutes of the first half left of the crunch match – which Scotland must avoid losing.
They have got form though and Scott McTominay’s double gave us a 2-0 win over La Roja back in March.
It’s currently scoreless after the first half while in the other important game in the group – Norway lead Cyprus 1-0.
But that’s all academic if Scotland can avoid defeat while the heat if on in the frying pan of Spain.
Fans have been soaking up the sunshine since descending on the southern city – where both Rangers and Celtic have each contested European finals in the past 20 years.
They’ve had a ball poking fun at Spanish pantomime villain Rodri – who ended the last meeting complaining about Steve Clarke’s tactics and even the length of grass on the pitch at Hampden.
Some have even had t-shirts and stickers made at his expense.
Others enjoyed soaking up the city sights and cooled off with pints – but scenes turned nasty last night when Spanish police clashed with a group of fans with their batons drawn.
If Scotland can’t seal the deal in Seville tonight – a win for Spain against Norway on Sunday would do the business before the final double-header of the campaign.
Scotland round off the qualifying section with a trip to Georgia and a home clash with Norway at Hampden.
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