H'away the Scots, scourge of Group 9
Scotland can look forward to an enjoyable World Cup campaign – and one that should see them sail into the later stages following a favourable draw in Group 9. The Scots are the group’s second seeds, so paint your faces - the tartan army’s on the march again...
Netherlands
The Dutch masters have a hit-and-miss record at the tournament, but still claim the top seed in the group. However, Scotland’s strong showing against Italy and France in the Euro ’08 campaign means Marco van Basten’s men will be wary of a mauling from football’s fiercest underdog.
Check out England’s World Cup rivals here
Norway
The Norwegian ice men boast a talented line-up that includes Villa’s John Carew and an unbeaten run against Brazil. Ranked 28th in the world, 14 places behind the Scots, the Scandinavian’s cool reserve will be a stern test of Alex McLeish’s men.An easy World Cup group for Scotland? Join the discussions
Macedonia
Although their FIFA ranking is a lowly 59th only a fool, or Steve McClaren would underestimate the fighting spirit and tenacious defence of Srecko Katenec’s first eleven. They racked up an impressive win over Croatia and held England to a goalless draw in the Euro ’08 qualifiers.
Iceland
Despite the tireless efforts of their one-man strike force Eidur Gudjohnsen the game against Iceland should be a turkey shoot. They’ve have never made the finals of any major tournament and FIFA rank them down in 89th place. It would be an upset of volcanic proportions if Iceland get a result.
Andorra
This tiny principality have already been on the receiving end of unanswered thumpings from the men in white recently and unless there’s a dramatic turn in fortunes they’re doomed to duke it out with the Kazakhs for the wooden spoon.
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