Scotland on Verge of History as Hungary Clash Looms

Scotland stands on the cusp of history as they prepare to face Hungary on June 23rd. A victory would potentially secure their first-ever qualification for the knockout stages of a major tournament at Euro 2024.

In 11 previous attempts, Scotland has consistently fallen short at the group stage. However, a battling 1-1 draw against Switzerland has rekindled hope and kept their dreams alive. A win against Hungary, who has lost both of their opening games, would likely be enough to secure second place in Group A or a spot among the four best third-placed teams that advance to the last 16.

Scotland manager Steve Clarke had set a target of four points before the tournament began. The clash with Hungary presents Scotland's best chance of securing their first win at a major tournament since 1996. However, the Hungarians are also desperate for a victory to keep their hopes of qualification alive.

"When the draw was made, you were probably targeting the last two games," said Scotland midfielder Callum McGregor. "When you get a bad result, perspective goes out the window a little bit. It was probably the manner of the defeat the other night which made everyone feel a bit sore and not great."

"As footballers, you have to deal with that. You have to try to put it right. We made the first step of putting it right and we arrive into the game on Sunday now with belief that if we play equally as well, if not better, we give ourselves a right good chance."

Scotland captain Andy Robertson has expressed his belief that this squad has the potential to achieve "legendary status" by breaking new ground for the nation. However, they will need to overcome adversity to do so. Ryan Porteous remains banned after being sent off in the 5-1 thrashing by Germany in Munich. Injury to Kieran Tierney has deprived Clarke of another defender and one of Scotland's best players.

Despite calls for more changes, nine of Clarke's squad have started both games. He must now decide whether to stick or twist in Stuttgart with a tight turnaround after an energy-sapping 90 minutes against the Swiss.

"We have to recover and bring the same energy level and the same tempo and the same aggression as we did against Switzerland," added McGregor.

Tierney's injury opens the door for a change of system. Clarke has stumbled upon his preferred 5-4-1 formation to accommodate both the Arsenal left-back and Liverpool's Robertson in the same side. A switch to a back four would allow the former West Brom boss to include an extra forward player and make room for Bournemouth's Ryan Christie alongside the midfield four of McGregor, Billy Gilmour, Scott McTominay, and John McGinn.

Many of the estimated 200,000 Tartan Army that have traveled to Germany are also calling for a change up front. Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland won player of the year awards in Scotland after scoring 31 goals this season. Yet, he has had barely a few minutes on the pitch in the opening two games as Clarke has opted for the extra mobility offered by Che Adams.

Since taking charge in 2019, Clarke's loyalty has fostered continuity and a club-like team spirit that has brought his country back to two major tournaments after two decades in the wilderness. But a bolder approach may now be what Scotland needs to change their narrative on the international stage and end an unwanted record.

Tags: #Euro2024, #Scotland, #Hungary, #Qualification, #History