Spain vs. Scotland: A Mere Setback in the Euro 2024 Campaign at Hampden?

 

Spain vs. Scotland: A Mere Setback in the Euro 2024 Campaign at Hampden?

"Tonight proved our mettle, and I eagerly anticipate the rematch," said Scotland's head coach, Steve Clarke, to the gathered media at Hampden Park's auditorium, nestled deep within the stadium's south stand.

His words followed an extraordinary victory against Spain, with Scott McTominay netting two early goals in each half. This momentous win, on an early spring evening in Mount Florida, catapulted Scotland's Euro 2024 qualification prospects forward, just two games into the group stage.

Remember, this was Spain, the World Cup champions and three-time European victors, who were soundly defeated that night. Their disappointment was palpable, bordering on bitterness. In his post-match interview, Manchester City's midfield powerhouse, Rodri, vented his frustration, deeming Scotland's style of play as wasteful and provoking.

Clarke, his coaching staff, and the players didn't take Rodri's remarks lightly, and they're gearing up to repeat their triumph in Seville on Thursday.

It's essential to note that Spain dominated possession, holding 75% of the ball that March night. Surprisingly, Scotland's supporters remained remarkably composed, despite the jubilation following McTominay's impressive goals. Unlike their intense, backs-against-the-wall victories against France in 2006 and 2007, this victory was strategic and clinical.

This loss was Spain's first in European Championship qualifiers since 2014, and it left the Spanish media pondering, "What is the plan?" as they questioned their newly appointed head coach, Luis de la Fuente. He had stepped in after Luis Enrique's departure following two consecutive World Cup exits in the last 16.

Yet, in less than three months, the 62-year-old led Spain to victory in the Nations League, defeating Italy in the semis and Croatia in the final, securing their fifth international trophy and first since Euro 2012. It was a resounding response to their defeat at Hampden Park.

Spain's recent thrashings of Georgia and Cyprus with 13 goals scored and just one conceded have signaled their resurgence as they aim to dethrone Clarke's group leaders.

However, it's not just Spain's form that should concern Scotland. The Spanish team boasts an astounding record, having won their last 23 European Championship qualifiers on home soil, a streak dating back to 2003. Moreover, they've lost only five qualifiers out of 125 played in their own country, emphasizing the challenge Scotland faces in securing the point they need.

Should Clarke's side replicate their historic success from March, it would arguably rank as their most significant victory, especially when considering the high stakes.

Spain has undoubtedly improved their squad since their defeat in March, with notable omissions like Barcelona's Pedro Porro. Veterans Dani Carvajal and Jesus Navas have been preferred at right-back since their loss at Hampden. The central defense features French-born Aymeric Laporte, now playing in Saudi Arabia, and Kieran Tierney's left-sided partner at Real Sociedad, Robin le Normand.

The Tartan Army's adversary, Rodri, will play a pivotal role, with Alvaro Morata leading the attack as captain and a prolific scorer. The attacking support act will likely feature players like Yeremy Pino, Bryan Zaragoza, Ferran Torres, Gavi, and Mikel Oyarzabal, constituting a highly talented Spanish lineup.

Facing the top seeds on foreign soil is always a daunting challenge. However, regardless of the outcome in Estadio de la Cartuja, Clarke and his players seem poised to celebrate back-to-back European Championship qualifications soon, even if a 1-0 defeat places them as favorites in the group ahead of a crucial November double-header against Georgia and Norway.