Scotland opened their Euro 2024 Qualifying campaign with a convincing 3-0 victory over Cyprus at Hampden Park on Saturday. John McGinn, the Aston Villa midfielder, scored the first goal in the first half, while Scott McTominay added two late strikes to secure the win. Steve Clarke's team controlled the game throughout, and the late goals were just the icing on the cake.
Spain, former World Champions, were their next opponents and also secured a 3-0 win in their opening match against Norway. Dani Olmo scored in the first half, followed by two goals from debutant Joselu late in the game. The victory against Norway, who are the second-favorite to qualify for Euro 2024, was an impressive start under new boss Luis de la Fuente.
Spain's last meeting with Scotland was during the Euro 2012 Qualifying at Hampden Park in October 2010. A late goal from Fernando Llorente gave Spain a 3-2 victory, denying Scotland a comeback from a 2-0 deficit.
Team News
Scotland's team news ahead of the match against Spain sees striker Che Adams ruled out due to an injury he sustained during the game against Cyprus on Saturday, which is a significant setback for the home side.
In the Scotland team, Lawrence Shankland from Hearts has been called up to replace the injured Che Adams and is likely to be on the bench for the match against Spain. Although Shankland has 17 goals in 28 Scottish Premiership games this season, he may not be used unless needed. Full-back Anthony Ralston has withdrawn from the squad due to fitness issues, but Scotland boss Steve Clarke has opted not to replace him as Aaron Hickey and Nathan Patterson can provide sufficient cover.
In the Spanish camp, a new era is underway following the retirement of long-serving midfielder Sergio Busquets from international football after their exit from the 2022 World Cup. The likes of Marco Asensio, Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati have missed out on this squad under new boss Luis de la Fuente, providing an opportunity for Joselu, who has been in impressive form at club level, to make his way into the side.