Scotland host Finland at Hampden Park in the final game before they set off to Germany to participate in the European Championships.
Date: 07/06/24
Kick-off time: 19:45
Venue: Hampden Park
Manager Steve Clarke has named an initial 28-man provisional squad, allowing him to take a good look at his players before cutting it down to 26 the next day. He has named a squad mixed with youth and experience, including Liverpool youngster Ben Doak, who will hope to make his first ever international appearance. Premier League representation includes Andy Robertson, Billy Gilmour and Scott McTominay.
It was a strong qualification campaign for Scotland, as they secured their place in the tournament with two games to spare. However, they are in the midst of a seven-game winless streak through the last international break, so they will be desperate to generate momentum and confidence ahead of their opening game against Germany. In their last five games, they have conceded 14 goals and scored six. During qualifying, McTominay was their leading goalscorer with seven. Only four players scored more, so he will likely be a strong threat once more. Aston Villa’s John McGinn has also been a solid contributor offensively with three goals.
Finland finished third in their qualifying group with 18 points, but earned the opportunity to enter the Euros via the playoffs. However, they fell at the first hurdle, losing 4-1 against Wales. Instead, they will serve as preparation for Scotland in this friendly. They could give them some issues at the back, as they have scored in each of their last five games. Striker Teemu Pukki will be a familiar name who will hope to get on the scoresheet.
These two countries have met just eight times before, and Scotland have been dominant winning six games and drawing two. The latest game was an international friendly in 1998, which ended 1-1. They have played in four competitive fixtures, twice in the European Championship and twice in World Cup qualifying and the World Cup.
