(FM23) We're Gonna Deep Fry....Everything!!

[andychar]

World Cup 2026 Qualifier 

Faroe Islands (a)

Back to back games against the Faroes and more of the same please.

Pretty much expected.

An enforced change. Che Adams injured. Dembele called up in his place but its Laidlaw who gets the start after his goal.

Faith immediately paid. Laidlaw with a lovely chip over an advancing keeper.

Tierney with a rare goal. Lovely finish across the keeper.

Turnbull makes it 2 in 2 for him. 

It was always going to be tough for the Faroes. Professional job so far.

Token goal it appears.

Do not adjust your device. It is exactly the same score as the last game.

We were denied even more icing, which is fine, we were full.

So far so good. France didn't play at all this break so it gave us a chance to open a lead but lets face it...it won't last.

[andychar]

Romania and France up this Window. A bit tricker than the last one!

Feel sorry for Hickey, its the one position we just don't need!

Murray Johnson returns but it will be Liam Kelly adding to his cap haul. I've not settled on a Number 1 all save otherwise Kelly would have more caps than 14!

There are a lot of players who could miss the France game! Leon King will probably see his first cap.

Fraser returns again. Usual midfield I think.

We have a good few youngsters coming through with Rory MacLeod being the most excisting. Che Adams will be the starter though for obvious reasons.

We are going to be struggling in CB I think. We lose a starter.

[andychar]

World Cup 2026 Qualifying

Romania (a)

This is a repeat of our very first fixture. We lost then but I'm feeling a bit more confident this time around.

We are favourites but its close. Its a big game in terms of finishing 2nd. If we win it then we are pretty much there I think.

No surprises in the team apart from Che Adams going on the wing while Rory gets his debut. Its a gamble/experiment.

Oh my John McGinn! A stunning goal. Corner is headed away but it falls straight to McGinn who curls a beaut into the top corner.

Its not been a great game at all. But we lead thanks to a moment of magic.

The experiment was unsuccessful.

A lovely counter and its a brilliant ball through from John McGinn and the sub Armstrong slots home.

Billy Gilmore with a brilliant free kick that hit the post. Che Adams first to react to slot into an open net.

Well this is icing. I don't think we deserve this high of a score but I'm not one to complain! Christie with the goal.

I was not expecting this in the slightest. What a win. Another Country ticked off the list!

[andychar]

It burns!

[andychar]

World Cup 2026 Qualifying

France (h)

This could be pain!

I'm not expecting anything from this game other than to keep it close maybe. 

We are forced into some changes. Welsh goes RB while Patterson goes to LB. McTominay comes into CB. Che Adams takes his rightful place up top with Armstrong starting. Wish me luck!

Well done Mr Vincent this interview is over. Idiot.

First time they come forward. Mbappe forces a save but it falls straight to an attacker who slots it home. Pain.

Billy Gilmour! From the Spot! From nothing really. We. Are. Level!

Its no surprise that France have looked the most dangerous with their attacks but end of the day we are level and we have a chance of a huge result. We also have a chance of a spanking still...

France show their class and we can't grumble its been coming.

I like Che Adams but he ain't no Mbappe!

Well you know what. We didn't deserve to beat Romania 4-0 and we don't deserve to lose this one by this scoreline. So easy come easy go!

Last goal winner right?!

Never mind.

Oh well it was certainly entertaining!

So now we are where I expected us to finish I can look at the other table to see the lay of the land...

Right now things are looking good. One more game against both Romania and North Macedonia, both at home and I think we will comfortably qualify for the World Cup.

[andychar]

It seemed like a pointless goal when 4-1 down but it turned into one of Che Adams biggest.

[andychar]

Wasn't a long wait until the next International Break.

A big World Cup Qualifier then a nice chance to tick another Country off the list. Sounds good to me!

Laidlaw I believe in. He's the future so why would I pick McBurnie?

Guy isn't at Mansfield anymore so I'm not bothered. Gunn comes back into the fray but its Kelly at the moment. Johnson might get the friendly.

You'll notice (it might have happened before and I've only just noticed) McTominay finally got his move. Hopefully he will play more.

Couple of people over 30 here but I'm not ready to look for replacements. They still have something to give. 

Che Adams scoring reckon is brilliant. Laidlaw will probably play in the friendly.

[andychar]

World Cup 2026 Qualifying

North Macedonia (h)

A chance to really cement our place in the World Cup 2026 as a successful runner up.

We are favourites although I thought it might be by more!

No real surprises to the line up. Gilmour has found himself the starter ahead of McGregor but I'm lucky to have great options in midfield.

Che Adams is going to make sure his record is unbreakable! A mistake pounced on.

Che Adams will another great goal. Fantastic start.

32nd minute and North Macedonia are down to 10 men. Straight red. Shocking challenge.

We are looking very comfortable and can't see us slipping now.

Its not been a great half of football but we see Che Adams bag his hattrick.

Slightly annoying to concede to 10 men.

Ryan Christie gives us a nice icing moment.

Pure domination.

[andychar]

Friendly

Sao Tome and Principe (a)

I closed down the SI Forums tabs while closing all the gyzao tabs so lost the entire build up and first half here...

We are 7-0 up.

Armstrong makes it 8. He came off the bench at half time.

I really want 10.

Can't keep a clean sheet for love nor money at the moment.

Is the comeback on!?

Come on. 1 more!

How can I score 9 and be annoyed.

Job done I suppose. 

Any hopes of a shock France loss went away. 2 more games Romania at home and France away.

We are best of the rest and I'd say looking good for qualification. Win against Romania and its all but secure.

[andychar]

This is the break that will see us either at the World Cup for the first time since 1998 or not. Easy as that. Romania at home and then France away.

Before I even started to prepare we got bad news.

Disadvantage straight away.

It seems Hibs are determined to play McGinty instead of his younger back up which means Kelly at the moment will remain the number 1. Archer back in the fold but strictly to make up the numbers.

With Jack Hendry being the least capped defender we know we are in safe hands at the back. Still a lot of suspensions waiting to happen.

I love our midfield. Its stacked.

I don't know who will get the nod. Laidlaw's numbers look amazing but he got 4 of them against Sao Tome and Principe so go figure!

[andychar]

World Cup 2026 Qualifying

Romania (h)

This is the game we need to put all our eggs into. France away is going to be near impossible. So lets win this and give our runner up place the best chance to take us into the World Cup.

Gauld gets the nod up front. Other than that its a fairly standard XI.

Armstrong squares it and Gauld fires into an empty net. Couldn't have asked for a better start really.

Gauld makes it 2. We counter from a corner and double the lead. Its looking good.

We haven't had much of the ball but when we have it we look good.

A needless penalty and Romania are back in it.

But we go straight down the other end and store. Christie with the goal.

Well it wasn't a gripping performance but 3 points and 3 goals will do nicely.

[andychar]

World Cup 2026 Qualifying 

France (a)

I don't think this will go well at all. Technically we still have a chance to finish top. It requires us to win 5-0. Easy right?

I think at this point we are officially at the World Cup but its not a guarentee.

No surprises here.

Laidlaw is up front as suspension and injury has meant changes on the wing. James Scott comes in to fill the space injury has provided. Gauld moves to the wing. McKenna comes in for the suspended Porteous.

Good luck gentlemen.

Its been a bombardment. We are still level though. If we could somehow nick a goal and sneak a win ticking them off the list would be huge...we were level at the half last time we played them however!

I fear the floodgates are going to open.

Varane from a corner.

If football lasted 45 minuts we would be fine.

Destroyed.

Pretty much as expected. 

Mission failed successfully.

Expectations? Nothing yet. We shall see.

Officially the next Break will be a few friendlies but we will see what happens.

[andychar]

World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers 

So who got there?

We know France and we know us.

Not really any shocks in the slightest. Other than the European Champions not only finishing 2nd but not being a lucky loser. Albania unlucky to finish 3rd with 21 points.

Bit of a wait now. More Countries to hopefully tick off and the World Cup draw to come.

[andychar]

World Cup Draw 2026

Please...no more Italy. I can't do it anymore.

I'm just glad its not Roy Keane.

So many groups!

Mexico and South Africa for us. It could have been better but my God it could have been much much worse. I'm very happy with it. 2 teams I can tick off as well. Looking around the other Groups.

Group O - Argentina and Norway will be a good game.

Group I - Brazil v Denmark.

Other than that I can't say anything stands out. Remember the Top 2 from each Group go through to the knockouts which start at the Last 16.

I'm confident we can get to the Last 16, hopefully the draw is kind.

Edited November 2, 2022 by andychar

[andychar]

For once I've followed advice!

We have a good chance to tick off some Countries here.

[andychar]

Nothing different here. McGinty still Hibs number 1 so he will keep getting the call up but honestly I wish the other guy would move so he can develop into my Number 1! 

Gone for some changes here while its friendlies.

I wanted to look at Owen McInnes, he has a bright future so wanted an early look.

Same with Dylan Munro. He will 100% start at least 1 game. Maybe both. 

[andychar]

Friendlies 

Saint Barthelemy (h)

Haha it is a waste of time but it needs to be done once!

Some new names in the starting line up. Best time to do it.

Owen McInnes scores 3 minutes into his debut.

20 minutes gone and the visitors are down to 10 men. It was already going to be a long night for them, now its going to be even longer.

Took longer than I'm happy with to make it 2. Munro scores on his debut.

Munro gets his second and our 3rd.

Should be more at the half really. With them also being down to 10.

Armstrong fires home our 4th.

Turnbull with a lovely freekick.

Nice and easy.

A 7th added at the end and Lowry gets his first goal.

Nice and easy.

[andychar]

Friendly

China (h)

If you have followed my previous saves you'll know I have a somewhat unhealthy hatred of Chinese Football. So this is a grudge match for me. 

So it will surprise nobody that I've gone for what I believe to be my strongest XI. There are plenty of people here who can only play 45 minutes so the second half will be interesting. I can only make 5 subs as well because I kept forgetting to change it when I create the friendly.

Good work from Che Adams down the side who tees up Ryan Christie to fire home. Good start.

A thunderbolt from Ryan Christie this time! Great start.

A penalty from Ryan Christie. Its a 9 minute hattrick. Amazing start.

Ryan Gauld makes it 4 and in my head it wasn't going to be this easy.

A rare McTominay goal from a swinging free kick. We are beating these better than a side who isn't even Ranked!

We are struggling to keep clean sheets at the moment which is a worry.

Che Adams finally chips in just before the break.

Well I wasn't expecting this good of a performance.

7 players can only play 45 minutes and I can only make 5 subs. I'm going to annoy a few managers! Strangly the Liverpool manager has given me full permission for Robertson to play the full 90!

Ryan Christie gets his 4th in what's been a dull second half.

Job very much done. Happy with that.

Estonia and Malta will find themselves playing in the bottom Division in the Nations League...

Spain lift the competiton. 

I can make a load of Friendlies but I imagine they will be cancelled to make way for the next Nations League so I'm not going to bother just yet.

 

[andychar]

The next International Break will be the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

The first time Scotland have qualified since 1998. We seek our first World Cup Victory since 1990. 

I decided to make a load of Friendlies in the end knowing most will be cancelled but some might survive.

The rest of the year potentially looks like this but I imagine it will be all change.

[andychar]

Nations League Draw

Its always a good sign when you get mentioned as the "crap teams"

Ok well...we have a good chance of maybe upsetting Croatia? The rest, well its going to be tough to survive. 3rd is absolutely an achievement, but its a chance of ticking off a few heavy hitters.

Just look at Group 2. Take your pick from that! I'd have wanted Group 1. Between either Denmark or Ireland we would have fancied our chances. Typical England getting the absolute easiest draw possible. 

Of all the Friendlies to survive it was Tuvalu. Brilliant.

[andychar]

World Cup 2026 Squad

This is just the preliminary squad and if its anything like last time I'll have to whittle it down without playing a single game.

Murray Johnson isn't the Hibs starter because of McGinty. I can't call him up.

Now this is a big squad which will be greatly whittled down.

I feel we are screaming out for a World Class Keeper and its just not happening. Think Hibs have one but they are holding him back. Kelly will be Number 1.

You know its a big squad when the defenders don't fit on one page! So out of all of these only 1 can potentially make his debut and he's unlikely to make the final squad. Don't be surprise to find the usual bunch here but we are struggling for CB I think which is why Tierney has been playing there recently.

George Buchan is the only here that stands out. 18 years old and I think will be a shock inclusion in the Final Squad. Some are here for nostaglia sake with no chance of making the actual squad, looking at you Callum Paterson. The Midfield continues to look strong with good battles for all places.

All these strikers called up for it to be whittled down to Che Adams, Dylan Munro and probably Jacob Brown.

[andychar]

World Cup 2026 Actual Squad

So once again I was asked to whittle it down without seeing anybody in action. Some were easy decisions. Some not so much.

26 men make it so I had to cut 27.

Only 3 got called up anyway so it was obvious here.

I've skimped on defenders I feel. Gambled. Robertson, Tierney, Patterson and McKenna are going to be the starters I feel, maybe McTominay. Good strength in depth. Greg Taylor comes in as we needed a back up LB I feel.

Seemingly lots of midfield but when you get rid of the players who can play multiple positions, Robertson, McTominay, Brown etc its not that stacked.

2 players who will likely make their debut at some point in this window but I can't see it changing too much from my usual 5. McGinn, Gilmour, Armstrong, Christie, Turnbull. There will be some chopping and changing though.

Munro is wanted by some big hitters in Europe so he is going to be a star. For now Che Adams will be the starter but I don't think its going to be long before Munro starts to chase down Adams.

I am confident we can at least reach the knockouts, then it will be down to how kind the draw is. Topping our group will help with that.

 

 

[andychar]

Friendly 

Canada (h)

Something satisfying about making the Hosts come to us for a friendly. Quite a few birds with one stone here. 1) Fitness 2) Country ticked off 3) It matches a team we play in the Group Stage. Everybody happy.

I think Canada are the highest World Ranking team we have chosen to play. My thoughts are they are unlikely to get to a World Cup in the Future so best get them done now.

I've gone for a fairly strong squad here. Not quite full XI. Munro starts with Buchan on the wing. The defence is roughly full strength. I have my eye on a young Nigerian who can represent us. He hasn't made his mind up yet and if he had he wouldn't only be in the squad, he'd be a starting member of it.

This has been very uncomfortable viewing. We haven't been great at all and for the first time in a while. I'm slightly concerned.

Well there it is. Probably the worst performance I've seen from this side. 

Missed opportunity to tick off a Country here we will have to see Canada again at some point.

[andychar]

Friendly

Zambia (h)

Zambia up next and its not a secret that the performance needs to be so much better. If I remember, the friendlies before the Euros didn't produce great performances but we still swept them meaning Countries were ticked off the list. Its going to be hard enough as it is this challenge, never mind dropping games to the likes of Canada!

Tierney gets a rest, as does McGregor. Buchan and Munro keep their place despite less than impressive performances. A few changes but still a solid line up.

Munro ensures we get off to a good start this time with a lovely dink over the keeper.

Buchan gets his first goal for Scotland. Both were awful against Canada. Proof that they deserved a second chance!

Zambia haven't done much going forward but suddenly its 2-1 and game on.

Munro restores the 2 goal advantage just before half time.

Kept the faith in the young 2 and its been paid.

Lewis Fiorini came off the bench and scores on his debut. Its been a good performance by the next generation.

Brown comes on and puts a cap on the performance.

Brown gets another. A wonderful finish giving the keeper no chance.

Now that's what I call a bounceback performance. Another Country ticked off the list. I'll provide an update as to where we are after the World Cup and each major Tournament.

 

[andychar]

Friendly

Trinidad and Tobago (h) 

A chance to tick off at least one North American Country in the World Cup Warmups.

Stern John! There's a name I've not heard for a while. Any way. Fiorini comes in for his first start for Scotland. Robertson and Gilmour get a rest. 

Last game before the World Cup. Lets go there on a high.

Munro with a lovely finish across the keeper. He's going to be a talent.

Munro gets his second set up lovely by McGregor.

McTominay from a corner. He's scored a few recently now bless him!

A good half of football where we have been dominant.

Munro gets his hattrick. He has bounced back brilliant from that Canada game.

The irony here being the only game we kept a clean sheet in was the one we were awful in.

We will go to the World Cup on a high. Lets do this!

[andychar]

World Cup 2026

Day 1 saw 4 games and some big scores.

No real surprises apart from maybe USA spanking Ecuador? First time noticing Venezuela are in the World Cup. I've avoided Friendlies with South American other than Bolivia cos I felt we could see them quite easily. Wasn't expecting Venezuela though!

Day 2 saw another 4 games. I think I'll enjoy the World Cup in 2026!

Morocco upsetting Uruguay and I'm all for it. Mali no match for france. Nigeria make it 2-0 for Africa against South America. Australia start big.

Day 3 

My issue with this format is it does lend itself to some games like Brazil v Cape Verde which (no disrespect intended) is going to lead to some spankings. And nobody wants to see that. New Zealand pick up a huge win, other than than, no surprises. 

We are Day 4....

 

[andychar]

World Cup 2026

South Africa (n)

We are favourites. And lets face it out of this game and Mexico this is the one more likely to send us through. 2 out the 3 teams reach the knockouts so 1 win will almost certainly be enough. Although it would be Scotland through and through if we all were to beat each other and we go out on GD.

Big shock up front. I've been impressed with what I saw from Munro. He keeps his place. He deserves the chance on the big stage. Gauld gets on the nod on the wing. McGregor beats Gilmour to the start. First World Cup game since 1998. 12 of the squad wasn't even born. Lets just enjoy it eh.

Its been all us but we haven't been able to put the ball in the back of the net. Munro has been guilty of missing a few chances. Its time for Che Adams to take centre stage.

Robertson also off at Half Time. He took a knock. Hopefully be ok for the Mexico game.

It took Che Adams 5 minutes. Get in there!

Che Adams tees up Gauld who finishes smartly. Ok. I'll admit it. I got it wrong. Che Adams will start the next game!

34 year old Stuart Armstong, likely his last chance to play at a World Cup fires home a 3rd and this has suddenly turned into plain sailing.

Welsh the CB gets in on the act. What a 45 minutes of football this has been.

Welsh again! He's on a hattrick.

Wow. Just wow. Che Adams stick it to me big time.

What a performance from Gauld. 4 assists and a goal. Take a bow son!

There will be some sore heads in Scotland tomorrow morning.

The Gambia pull off what I think is a huge shock. But we deffo get result of the day.

Surely that's enough to reach the Second Round. A win over Mexico will give us a nicer draw though. 

[andychar]

World Cup 2026

Day 5 sees the second lot of games from Groups start.

One of the hosts sees a tough loss. Other than that no real surprises. Poland and Colombia are already through as are Italy and Jamaica. They will play each other for placement. Germany already through and looking to secure top spot next game. Group A is still up in the air.

Day 6 sees 4 more games.

Very much a day for the purists this one. Morocco and Mali pick up good wins. England start off their World Cup well. Ghana bounce back and keep their hopes alive. Morocco with 2 wins from 2 secure Top Spot in Group E. Uruguay and Hungary will face each other with qualification on the line. Nobody else has qualified.

Day 7 and 8 more Countries with their fates up in the air.

Not an exciting day! Spain limp home against Algeria. 4 more teams fail to score to set up interesting final games. Brazil and Denmark both through in Group I. They play each other for placement. Portgual secure passage through without playing. Interesting scenario there. Costa Rica will be playing not to be spanked cos GD will probably decide that Group. New Zealand and Spain both through in Group K. Holland through without touching a ball in Group L. Qatar, like Costa Rica, playing not to be spanked by Holland.

Day 8 sees the last 4 groups play their second set of fixtures.

And with it...

Mexico too strong for South Africa but good for us meaning a point would be enough to finish Top. Elsewhere The Gambia lose out to Canada meaning that Group is interesting. Sweden v Canada last game and there's a good chance each team will finish with 3 points. No other shocks really. Both Norway and Argentina through and play for placement. Nobody through in Group P. Goes down to the finale.

Day 9 sees the start of the final set of fixtures in the Groups. Pictures become clear.

Great result for Jamaica.

Assuming all Top Teams play all 2nd Place Teams its already clear finishing Top is huge. The 80th minutes 5th goal Venezuela conceded against Germany sees Cameroon through to the next round with 1 little point.

Day 10 saw more Countries through and more Countries heading home.

Australia who started with a 3-0 win find themselves dumped out the World Cup following a dismal performance. Nigeria and Mali make it a good day for Africa without touching a ball. England are looking deadly. Hungary win their battle and progress to the next round. There isn't a single 2nd place team I fear playing. We need to top the group.

Day 11 provided more drama.

Qatar needed not to be spanked. They were. Costa Rica needed not to be spanked. They weren't.

Denmark are the trickest 2nd place team so far. Nobody will want them. Other than that nothing to fear.

We are Day 12...

[andychar]

World Cup 2026

Mexico (n)

Now this is interesting. I was assuming it was going to be played in Mexico with them as the hosts but the game has got it listed as Neutral. We play them at FedEx Field in the US.

Its going to be a close game. Very hard to call. I want to see I believe. Winning this game is 100% the difference between Last 16 loss and a good chance of a Quarter Final Apperance.

We will round up the Group Stage. So here are the other results.

Sweden blow a 2 goal lead to crash out the World Cup. Horrible for them. Brilliant game between Norway and Argentina with Argentina the team everybody will want to avoid in the Last 16. No real surprise in Group P.

Now lets get to us!

Stephen Welsh makes a very good point!

Just the one change. Adams for Munro. And well well well. The fat Spanish Waiter is in charge of Mexico. Victory all the more sweet...

Che Adams has the ball in the back of the net after only 6 minutes but its ruled out for offside. First time I've seen the ref go to VAR and actually overturn a goal. Bad timing for it!

Moments after Gauld missed an absolute sitter to take the lead we are punished. Knife through butter ball and a good finish. Rough start. Remember, a point is enough for top spot.

VAR comes to our rescue this time! McGinn with a belting shot which is saved, Armstrong is the fastest to react and he fires homes. Calls for offside are shown to be false. We are back at the top.

And as you can see its no more than we deserved. I'm feeling greedy. Lets get another and tick off probably the biggest North American hitter!

VAR again, this time checking a penalty and its given. McGregor steps up as cool as you like and slots home. We are in control of the Group. Ready to take on Argentina....

Disappointing defending gives Mexico a shout at finishing top of the group. Lets just hold them off now.

We should have won. Mexico scoring with their very few meaningful attacks. No Country ticked off the list but its top.

Can grumble but won't because it gives us another chance to tick off a Country in the Last 16.

That'll do pig.

 

[andychar]

World Cup 2026

Ok I've been wrong the entire time and my Maths have been awful. This isn't the Last 16. Its the Last 32. And it looks like this...

Biggest blockbuster ties I can see are Denmark v Portugal and Wales v Argentina. Other than that, some fairly simple ties for the major teams. 

We need to win this, our Expectation is Last 16. I obviously need to learn how the new format works because I thought we were already there. 

On paper The Gambia should be a very winnable tie.

Day 13 saw the knockouts begin. Good thing about these are there has to be a winner either way. I started using ET and penalties in earlier friendlies and wish I did that against Canada now!

It was a day of ALMOST shocks. Jamaica took Germany all the way. Croatia v Poland was also going to be tricky to pick a winner. USA maybe using home field advantage to their....well...advantage. Italy given a scare but came through.

Day 14, would we see a real shock?

Morocco continue their fine World Cup with an ET win over Mali. England given a scare but are safely through. Professional job done by France. Nigeria beating Ukraine, not sure that counts as a major upset? 

Day 15, surely a major scalp here...

The theme remains the same. ALMOST. Brazil waited until the 96th minute to finally put Costa Rica away. More late drama as Portugal overcome a very tricky game. Spain and Holland, not worried.

We are Day 16.

[andychar]

World Cup 2026

The Gambia (n)

Equation at this point is simple. Win or go home. If we end up going home this save could be over. We are expected Last 16.

Not a surprise to see we are favourites.

Before us Argentina dispatched Wales with ease. Poor Wales, they were very unlucky with the draw.

3 changes made. 1 enforced. Patterson suspended so Tierney will play his 3rd different position this World Cup and McKenna will come in. Welsh is rested so Porteous makes his World Cup debut and Gilmour comes in for McGregor. McGregor is on a suspension so wanted to save him for a potential Last 16 match against a harder team.

16 seconds I think it took. Armstrong, who has had a great World Cup. Fires home. Dream start.

Tierney with a brilliant goal. Curled in from the edge of the box. No chance keeper. Comfort.

Che Adams heads home and surely puts this game beyond doubt.

The way this ref is dishing out cards I'm glad I spared McGregor! I will be taking off 3 players who are on bookings in order to protect them!

Penalty. Gilmour. No mistakes. Bosh.

No question The Gambia were the better team in the second half but we did what we needed to. Onto the Last 16 we go and we will keep our job!

Ouch. Argentina setting out to destroy all the Home Nations dreams.

Slightly harsh given the draw we had!

The rest of the day went by without much drama. Some good games though.

[andychar]

World Cup 2026

Day 17 saw the start of the Last 16 and football games drop from 4 to 2. Booooooo!

I'm feeling a lot less happy about Croatia being in my Nations League Group! USA put up a brave fight before falling to one of the favourites Italy.

Day 18 and 2 more games to be played.

Morocco have been the surprise package never mind us! They have won all 4 games so far and find themselves as only the 2nd African side to reach the Quarter Finals. Hats off to them! England crash out in ET. Typical England World Cup really. Only thing missing was penalties.

Day 19 with 2 more Countries aiming to make the Quarters. With both games belters on paper.

And belters in reality. What a day of football! Spain were saved by a ET penalty while Holland overcame a late equaliser to get through on penalties. I'm feeling a lot less happy about have Spain in my Nations League Group. It we somehow beat Argentina it will be Spain in the Quarter Final.

We...are Day 20.

 

[andychar]

World Cup 2026

Argentina (n)

This is what this save is about. Trying to tick off a big Nation on the Worlds biggest stage. 

We are obviously underdogs. We have nothing to lose. Either we are out where we were expected to be dumped out, or we make Scottish history (if we haven't already).

Before us Norway dumped the last host out. 

We finish up the Last 16. Lets go!

5 players will start this game 1 yellow away from a Suspension, but lets face it, unlikely that will matter. They are Robertson, McGinn, McGregor, Gauld and Adams.

Our strongest XI. Our best chance.

Scenes. Oh my God there's scenes. Gauld does well down the wing, puts in a cross and its Turnbull who rises the highest to nod it home! We lead!

Tight and cagey affair. I get the feeling when the World Cup 2026 comes along with the new format in real life this is the stage that we will get games like this. So far so good I'd say. If we do get to the Quarter Final we will be without Robertson, McGinn and Gauld. Big losses.

Che Adams! A lovely ball played into him and a dink over the keeper. We had a wait for VAR but it was given. The Tartan Army are going absolutely wild!

69th minute (hehehe) Argentina are down to 10 men. The World Cup is crashing down around them.

Now then. A lovely free kick beats Kelly and suddenly the nerves are starting to appear.

Why show the scores the same? I hear you scream at your monitor or device or your choosing. Well its because we just absolutely got away with one. Cross driven in and slotted home but it appears the striker was offside! Ruled out by VAR. Hearts in arses.

We've done it! Quarter Finals of the World Cup and a huge name ticked off the list. We will never have to beat Argentina again and I'm so happy about that!

The favourites. The current holders. The World Number 1. No big deal eh.

This is how the Quarters line up. Anything, absolutely anything else here is a bonus.

 

 

[andychar]

World Cup 2026

Spain (n)

We are still here!

We face a David v Goliath task but we are still here!

We are expecting to get pumped.

Before us the Quarter Finals got underway after a few days without any football. Starved fans everywhere rejoiced and bought Morocco shirts....

The dream is over but they gave Italy a chuffing good scare!

Its worth noting 2 teams into the Semi Final are two we have faced more than once. If (and its a huge if) we beat Spain we will play France in the Semi Final. 

6 players are 1 yellow card from Suspension and missing a Semi Final if we get there. They are Patterson (again) Welsh, Tierney, Gilmour, McGregor (still!) and Adams.

We have nothing to lose here and I'm expecting a mullering.

McKenna plays instead of Robertson as Tierney goes out to the left. Gilmour gets the nod for the suspended McGinn and Gauld missing means Christie goes out to the wing and the surprise nod goes to Fiorini.

Good luck gentlemen.

Nothing really of note. I'd say we had the best chance through Armstrong but nothing doing really. I have a feeling we are being set up for heartbreak here.

Holy forking shirtballs. 

Ryan Christie with the biggest goal of his career. Fires homes after good work by sub Erhahon. We have 30 minutes to hold on for what would be the biggest win in Scottish history since we beat Argentina 2-1 all those days ago.

We tried! We just couldn't hold on. Now its holding onto ET.

Che Adams!!!! A stroke of luck really. A shot from Erhahon cannons off a defender into the path of Adams who smashes it home. My heart can't take it!

I missed the goal but absolute heartbreak. We were 2 minutes away from the World Cup Semi Final. Now I'm going to have to sit through another 30minutes of pain and tourture.

Can we somehow take the lead for a 3rd time or are we looking to hold on till penalties?

We are 15 minutes away from a Penalty Shootout I would 100% take right now.

Moments after we hit the post they go down and score. I said we were being set up for heartbreak but this is just cruel.

Heartbreak.

Holland beat Norway to wrap up the Quarters.

France reach the Final. Maybe we mentally destroyed Spain.

They will face Holland. So many finals for the Dutch, can they finally win the big one?

Italy win the most pointless game in all of football.

Heartbreak once again for Holland, they just can't get over that line.

We hit 20th in the World Rankings. Not the best Scotland have been but certainly the best under me.

We are hit with huge disappointing news after the World Cup.

At only 32 Robertson ends his International Career. 4 short of the Century mark. I tried to get him to reconsider. No chance.

Bit of a sour note to finish what was an amazing World Cup for us.

 

 

 

 

[andychar]

I said at the time it was a stunner!

[Rikulec]

Heartbreaking, but what a run!

[andychar]

22 hours ago, Rikulec said:

Heartbreaking, but what a run!

It was, can't grumble surpass expectations and then some but still...sooo close!

Haha they were very happy with what they saw. But its a no from me dog.

 

[andychar]

Update

So its been a full cycle of Tournaments so where do we currently stand?

Not many in Asia. 2/46 complete. Long way to go.

A mini dent in Africa with 2 coming at the World Cup. 6/54

2 attempts missed at the World Cup and Friendlies before hand. 4/35

Was always going to find most Yellow in Europe. 10/54

Nothing in OFC yet, a few cancelled Friendlies along the way. 0/11

Huge one ticked off the list from South America in Argentina. 2/10

One with one more to hopefully come from the Non-Ranked Nations. 1/16

So overally it means out of 226 Countries we have completed 24. So only another 202 to go. If we keep up this pace (which I doubt it) I will roughly take me another 32 game years? I think. That might be awful Maths. I feel like it might be. 24 teams completed in 4 years either way.

[andychar]

With the Nations League starting we have to accept the next few windows are likely to be filled with pain. No wonder Andy Robertson called it a day.

I've lost the Nigerian I think. He has gone back to flat our rejecting me. With Tierney now likely to play in Robertson's old place it opens up a place he would have filled greatly at CB.

There's been a few months between windows, giving me a chance to scout some players at the back, somebody who could come in and replace Robertson, if at all possible.

So what could I come up with?

Usual 3 with Kelly being the Number 1.

Nothing new is the answer. Hickey would have been called up but he's carrying an injury at the moment. Don't be surprised to see Patterson, McTominay, Welsh and Tierney as the back line. Easily the worse part of the team. We are crying out for a youthful CB.

Still happy with the midfield. Although a number of them are now on the wrong side of 30. Buchan is a good start but need some fresh meat coming through soon.

I think its time Munro took the job and will be the starter. Che Adams a very good player to come off the bench if need be.

Nobody can make their benut here. I'm not confident at all in these 2 games.

[andychar]

Nations League

Croatia (a)

The goal is survival here but honestly its an uphill task before we have even kicked a ball! We need to bring the feel good factor from the World Cup with us. A chance to tick off 2 good Nations at least.

A sight we need to get used to seeing. We are underdogs. Luckily the board couldn't give a monkies so my job will be safe regardless.

Changed my mind with CB pairing. Morrison getting the nod ahead of McTominay. Christie plays but int he Centre of Midfield giving Armstrong the start with Gauld on the other wing. As promised Munro plays. Adams waiting to pounce off the bench.

Let the pain begin!

We have given as much as we have gotten in the first half. Every chance we can come away with a result here. Anything would be good.

What a start to the half! Christie forgets himself, finds himself forward and through, slots home. Brilliant stuff.

Oh my an explosion! Turnbull this time with a lovely strike. 

An awful mix up betweeen Defenders and Keeper. Defenders leave it when they shouldn't. Keepers comes to collect when he shouldn't and its a gift of a goal. A way back in for Croatia.

Number 1 keeper. Maybe not for all. The ball is calmly passed back to him and instead of booting anywhere else he fires it directly at the charging attacker and its slotted into an open net. He was at fault for both goals here and he and only he have cost us all 3 points here. Done.

Not heartbreak this time, more absolute fury.

I know I said I'd be happy with any result but the way it was blown up by 1 player making 2 mistakes has rubbed me up the wrong way.

[andychar]

Nations League

Spain (h)

Well at least it gets easier eh.

We took them all the way to Extra Time in the World Cup. They didn't get any further and replaced their manager. It won't be an easy game at all.

3 changes. Kelly dropped. What you need to know is I write these posts as I'm playing so what you get is raw human emotion. Odds are by time the next fixtures come around I'll have calmed down and Kelly will play again. But right now he's lucky he's on the bench and wasn't be made to row home from Croatia. The other change sees Che Adams on the wing. Its an experiment. Lets see what happens eh. Welsh looking tired so Liam Cooper comes on in his place. I need better CBs!

Can we cause an almighty upset?

McGinty makes a mistake. Very similar to Croatia equaliser. What have I done to deserve these keepers?

S*** keeping has been the difference between 4 points and 1 point at the moment. I'm not hopeful in the second half.

We have been awful.

First time I'm going to be giving an aggressive full time team talk and we drew 0-0 with Canada.

We lost big before and I've defended the team saying we didn't deserve it. We deserved this and more. I am furious.

Croatia go to Portugal and win which keeps the Group wide open but its really bad news for me. It means we are also going to have to get a result against Portugal to even give us a chance. Its uphill already and its only been 2 games. I need some defenders now.

[andychar]

Maybe my expectations are a lot higher than they should be. But it worries me in the long termness of this save we just can't seem to get a result against the bigger European sides. There are roughly 10 Countries that were going to always be tricky, but we are 3 down against Italy, 2 France and 2 Spain without really a glimmer of hope (apart from the ET loss).

I need a spark in defence. Otherwise we could be in serious bother.

This is our 2nd crack at Portugal, obviously at home its our best chance. Then its Spain away our 3rd crack and honestly I have 0 hope.

These fixtures are coming thick and fast.

McGinty can do one!

Makes no odds anyway when Kelly is going to play and I get over my stupid pride.

Yep both Patterson and Tierney suspended for the Portugal game. Actual pain.

Erhahon back in the side after missing out through injury last time. 

I was going to drop Munro but Adams missing out will leave me no choice. It also meand Laidlaw back in the squad.

I am scared. I just need to smash these 6 games out and come back stronger!

 

[andychar]

Nations League

Portugal (h)

I'm worried with no good defenders this could end up a cricket score!

This whole game has the air of "Lets get this over with" about it. Kelly back in, I'm sorry for my overreaction it will never happen again! Hamilton gets the start. Hickey will probably play both games but on either side. McGinn in for Armstrong effectively. Munro keeps his place but he is under fire after 2 awful performances last time out. Give me a goal boy!

Hampden was embarrased last time out. Lets make up for that.

Get in just what we needed! Gauld with a smart finish.

Couldn't hold on till half time and thats a bitter blow.

Its been a close game. They have created the better chances but we are still in this.

Nobody closes Octavio down and he fires home. Poor goal to give away.

We just don't have the class to stick with these teams on a regular basis. I think the best chance of compeleting this challenge is taking them on in Friendlies when the squads aren't as strong.

The World Cup seems a very distant memory.

[andychar]

Nations League

Spain (a)

At least it gets easier eh! 

At the moment I don't think there's anything I can do to make this better. Just take the lumps. Croatia are still in striking distance so if its head to head we might still have a chance...

We still have a chance! Keep within 3 of them and then beat them at Hampden. Easy! Imagine the scenes!

We welcome back Patterson and Tierney. Decided that Hickey should start on the wing with Tierney in the middle. Armstong, Gilmour and Buchan cover tiredness and suspension. Munro gets his 4th chance to not be invisible. Lets face it. This is going to be pain.

Oh but we dare to dream. A free kick is saved but its Armstrong who reacts the quickest to fire it home. 

Oh sweet buttery Jesus what is happening. Munro with the finish! Finally come faith paid off. I mean I say that, had Adams been fitted he would have been canned so fast.

Please let me just hold on to tick off another huge team.

GET THE F*** IN!

Absolute scenes!

Unreal win that. It means we are still bottom but that could change with a draw against Croatia. 0-0 or 1-1 and we win the head to head, unless away goals are counted then our GD is going to send us down, either way we are in a better position than I thought we were going to be.

And more importantly on the 3rd attempt Spain have been ticked off. Huge!

 

 

 

 

[andychar]

The next break comes with a chance of survival and a nice Friendly against Tuvulu. I expect them to be ticked off at least.

We beat the best Team in the World right now and continue to get closer and closer to the highest ever for Scotland (which was 13th back in 2007...or 2nd if you Count the first ever International).

Another young Hibs player I think has done enough to earn a call up. Will probably play against Tuvalu. If we beat Croatia at Hampden we will be secure and safe from the drop. Imagine that before the Spain game.

Big decision this. There are some youngsters coming through I wanted to look at. 

Anyway who actually made it.

McGinty welcomed back but I might throw Gunn a bone in the friendly. Its been a while since he was capped.

Fair play to Morrison he has stepped up a wee bit since we lost a CB. Hickey will be an ever present now.

Hunter will deffo get his first cap. He looks like he could be brilliant. Maybe even a McGregor replacement.

Munro probably against Tuvalu and Adams in the competitive fixtures.

[andychar]

[andychar]

Friendly

Tuvalu (h)

This game comes perfectly after the Spain win. Confidence is back up and this is a chance to cement it before the crunch game with Croatia.

7 out the 11 here are 24 or under. This is the current future. Lets see how they get on.

Munro opens the scoring with a header.

Then doubles his tally minutes later. Chance to get that goal a game record back!

Munro gets his hattrick. This is how Spain must have felt when they thrashed us.

Munro gets his 4th and I wasn't kidding with the goal a game thing.

Can we finally hit somebody for 10? Munro didn't score. And he's picked up a knock.

Ryan Christie doing it for the older guys.

Christie gets a second from the spot.

Munro gets his 5th just before he will be subbed at the break.

I deffo want 10!

What an awful second half! Oh well no 10 goals but a win and another Country ticked off the list.

 

[forameuss]

Your biggest problem might end up being European nations to be honest.  With the way the schedule is, if you don't draw them in competitive matches, they're probably not going to be regularly available for pre-tournament friendlies either.  I think there's still a few nations we haven't met in ages, and there might even be some we've never met.

[andychar]

6 minutes ago, forameuss said:

Your biggest problem might end up being European nations to be honest.  With the way the schedule is, if you don't draw them in competitive matches, they're probably not going to be regularly available for pre-tournament friendlies either.  I think there's still a few nations we haven't met in ages, and there might even be some we've never met.

There's that and there's a few African Nations I've come across that are unlikely to qualify for anything but I'm being told the distance is too great for a Friendly. So there are a few things that might stop me being able to 100% complete this. I do need a lot of luck with draws going forward. Been good right now because pretty much all needed to be ticked off. I want to stay as high as possible in the Nations League cos it gives me more chances to tick off these big Countries without resorting to Friendlies.

[Johnny-Trotter]

2 hours ago, andychar said:

There's that and there's a few African Nations I've come across that are unlikely to qualify for anything but I'm being told the distance is too great for a Friendly. So there are a few things that might stop me being able to 100% complete this. I do need a lot of luck with draws going forward. Been good right now because pretty much all needed to be ticked off. I want to stay as high as possible in the Nations League cos it gives me more chances to tick off these big Countries without resorting to Friendlies.

I think that if you continue to risk up the rankings and improve Scotland's reputation, the question of distance being too far will be less of an issue. I would imagine that if Brazil offered any African side a friendly, they would be tripping over themselves to accept it.