After a year of delay following the postponement of the tournament last year due to the pandemic, the Euro 2020 event is finally under way whilst holding on to last year’s moniker and fans have already been witness to some great games to get things going, both through high scoring stomps and nil-nil ties with a lot of close football played. After a win over Serbia, seemingly a lifetime ago now, Scotland were able to qualify for a major men’s international tournament for the first time since 1998 – with plenty of punters putting money down on the squad as euro 2020/2021 betting continues to increase, how are Scotland’s chances looking to make it into the knockout stages?
Scotland v Czech Republic – The opening game for the Scottish side didn’t go as well as some had hoped, after winning in both of their previous meets confidence would have certainly been high for the Scots and the first half was looking great with a few good opportunities, as well as a few close shots in the second half too but just unable to capitalise on them. The Czech Republic were able to put two away at Hampden Park however with the second likely to be a highlight goal throughout the competition and leaving Scotland in a tough position to come back from with the remaining games.
Scotland v England – The second game will take place a little later this week, and it’s certainly a tough one for Scotland heading to Wembley. Pundits suggested that getting ahead in the first game would be the best way for Scotland to somewhat secure a spot in the knockout stages – whilst the pressure will somewhat be on Southgate’s side as it’s an expected England win for many, some versatility from Clarke could certainly set Scotland up to take command of the game – but with Scotland coming off a loss and England coming off a win, it could be a tough one.
Scotland v Croatia – Heading back to Hampden Park for the final game of groups on June 22nd, Scotland’s hopes here will all depend on how the previous game went. Securing a win or draw against England could keep hopes alive, but a loss would mean the hopes to get into the knockout stages are over – having already had a loss to England, and the result of the upcoming game against the Czech Republic determining their own fate, Croatia may not be in the highest of confidence which could make it a much easier match for the Scottish, and with a home advantage it could just tip the scales.
For many just making the event is already a great achievement in itself but being able to progress to the round of 16 would certainly ignite further passions, and for now it’s just a waiting game to see how the next few matches go.