Big Match Breakdown: Scotland v Portugal

Preview, odds and tips for the friendly clash

Scotland host Portugal at Hampden Park this evening looking for a strong performance after losing to Israel on Thursday.

Portugal edged out Poland 2-3 in a five-goal thriller to sit top of their Nations League group.

This will be an opportunity for both sides to experiment with formations but also build some momentum going into next month’s competitive fixtures.

Ahead of the kick-off in Glasgow, the Coral News Team analyse things with a Big Match Breakdown…

Head-to-Head

The fixtures between the two nations have been few and far between in the last two decades. The last meeting came in November 2002.

Portugal went on to win 2-0 in Braga. Pauleta bagged a brace in a team that featured the likes of Luis Figo, Simao and Rui Costa.

Scotland’s team that day saw Scott Dobie and Stevie Crawford leading the line.

The last time the Tartan Army beat their opponents was a 4-1 win in 1980. Current Scotland boss Alex McLeish was in the defence that day.

Likely XIs

McLeish could make wholesale changes after the defeat to the Israeli’s. Oli McBurnie and James Forrest should get the nod from the start.

Despite getting sent off on Thursday, defender Scotland John Souttar will be available for the friendly. His ban will only come into play against Albania next month.