Tonight’s UEFA Nations League clash at Hampden Park between Scotland and Croatia is pivotal for both teams. Scotland aims to avoid relegation from League A, while Croatia seeks to secure a spot in the knockout stages. Scotland currently sits at the bottom of Group A1, having secured just one point from four matches. The team has struggled recently, with only one win in their last 16 international games and none in their last eight outings. Their most recent match ended in a goalless draw against Portugal. Croatia, on the other hand, is second in the group with seven points from four games. They are aiming to close the gap with group leaders Portugal and secure a top spot for a seeded place in the quarter-finals. In their last encounter, Croatia came from behind to defeat Scotland 2-1 in Zagreb.
Croatia will start Dominik Kotarski in goal, as first-choice goalkeeper Dominik Livaković is suspended following a red card in the previous match against Poland. Kotarski, 24, has been a standout performer for Greek club PAOK, where he has been the first-choice goalkeeper since joining in 2022. He made his senior debut for Croatia in March 2024 during a friendly against Egypt, coming on as a substitute at halftime. Croatia’s head coach, Zlatko Dalić, confirmed Kotarski’s selection for this crucial fixture, expressing confidence in his abilities and current form.
For Scotland, midfielder Scott McTominay has been in excellent form, scoring in both games of the September internationals and recently netting the opening goal for Napoli against Inter Milan. His performance will be crucial for Scotland’s chances. A win for Scotland is essential to keep their hopes alive in the Nations League and to avoid relegation. For Croatia, securing three points would strengthen their position in the group and enhance their chances of advancing to the knockout stages.
Both teams are expected to field strong lineups, with Scotland welcoming back key players like John McGinn, while Croatia will rely on their experienced core, mixed with there new young core.
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