World Cup Qualifying: Greece vs. Scotland
Venue: Karaiskakis Stadium, Piraeus
Date: Saturday, 15 November
Kick-off: 19:45 GMT
Coverage: The match will be available to watch on BBC Scotland and iPlayer, and listeners can tune in on BBC Radio Scotland, Nan Gaidheal, and Sounds. For real-time updates, visit the BBC Sport website or app.
As Scotland gears up for a crucial World Cup qualifying clash against Greece, assistant coach Steven Naismith describes the match as “the play-off before the play-offs.” This Saturday, the Scots will take the field in Piraeus, followed by a decisive home encounter against Denmark next Tuesday.
Currently, Scotland is locked in a tight race with Denmark, who leads the group only by virtue of goal difference. Greece and Belarus, unfortunately, have already been eliminated from the running for next year’s finals in Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
Naismith emphasizes the stakes: “Effectively, we’re in a play-off to get to a World Cup. If we can secure a good result in the first game, it sets us up nicely for the second.”
The Greeks triumphed over Scotland in their last two encounters during the Nations League playoffs but suffered a defeat at Hampden Park in October’s World Cup qualifier.
“There have been tight matches between us,” Naismith noted. “Both Greece and Denmark will enter this thinking, ‘we can win the group.’ Greece has faced some tough moments and will be eager to prove themselves. We understand what we need to do to counteract their strengths based on our recent meetings.”
Scotland is on the cusp of reaching a men’s World Cup finals for the first time since 1998, a prospect that excites Naismith, a former Scotland forward. “What I’ve noticed is this squad has developed a remarkable understanding of what it takes to succeed,” he observed. “Making it to two European Championships has added tremendous value to our experience. There’s a clear focus now: we know what we must achieve to qualify for major tournaments.”
With a blend of youthful talent and seasoned players, this squad is well-prepared for the challenges ahead. “Football is the lifeblood of our country,” Naismith continued. “Scots are passionate, and at times, that translates to high pressure. But when we unite—fans and players alike, under the guidance of our manager—we often find success.”
He reflected on the significance of this moment for today’s supporters, who have witnessed two major tournaments: “I grew up seeing our last World Cup in France ‘98, while this generation has seen progress. There’s a different mindset and expectations from everyone involved. We are a nation that has tasted success, and we want that to continue.”
‘Good Chance’ Gilmour Could Face Denmark
In other news, midfielder Billy Gilmour has reportedly “a good chance” of being fit for the encounter with Denmark next week, according to Naismith. The 24-year-old will miss Saturday’s match due to a groin injury that has kept him sidelined for Napoli’s last two games.
Although Gilmour is currently absent from the squad’s training camp in Turkey, Naismith expressed hope for his recovery in time for the crucial second match: “Billy’s injury occurred a couple of weeks ago. While there was discussion about having him on-site here, it’s better for him to recuperate at home to maximize his chances for the next game.”
He added, “It would be a risk to rush him back for Greece, but we are optimistic that with another week, he can be in top form for Denmark.”
The countdown to these pivotal qualifiers has begun, and Scotland looks poised to make history if they can navigate these next challenges successfully.
