Former Scotland forwards Billy Dodds and James McFadden reflected on Saturday’s match against Greece and looked ahead to the decisive qualifier against Denmark at Hampden Park.

Scotland needed at least a point in Piraeus to stay in contention for automatic World Cup qualification but ended up losing 3-2. Despite the setback, Belarus’ unexpected 2-2 draw with Denmark means Scotland can still top Group C with a victory over the Danes.

Dodds questioned whether Scotland’s cautious approach early in Greece was a result of calculating the points needed. “Perhaps the mindset was cautious because we thought a draw could suffice,” he suggested. By the second half, he noted, the team showed more urgency and energy, nearly turning the result around.

McFadden attributed the defeat to weak defending and nerves stemming from previous encounters with Greece. He observed poor pressing, large gaps between defense, midfield, and attack, and a lack of forward momentum from key players in the first half.

Tactical considerations and possible lineup tweaks

Both Dodds and McFadden anticipated that Scotland manager Steve Clarke might retain the same overall formation against Denmark but could make minor personnel adjustments. The striker and possibly one central defender are under consideration for change. Dodds mentioned Scott McKenna as a potential replacement for Grant Hanley to add pace.

McFadden agreed that Hanley appeared shaky against Greece and could be replaced but expects Che Adams to remain up front. Billy Gilmour’s injury and absence from training may influence Clarke’s approach, potentially prompting a shift in formation rather than relying on the 4-4-2 used against Denmark in Copenhagen. Clarke could revert to a back three or a defensive five depending on circumstances.

Denmark’s recent performance was criticized by their coach following a draw with Belarus, and a stomach bug in their squad could affect morale. Dodds believes such issues might create a negative mindset for the visitors, which Scotland can exploit.

Hampden support and mindset boost

Both former forwards emphasized the unique atmosphere Hampden can generate during critical qualifiers. McFadden recalled the deafening noise during matches against the Netherlands in 2003 and Italy in 2007, noting the electric anticipation surrounding a potential World Cup berth.

Dodds shared memories from the 1999 playoff against England, recalling the intensity of the national anthems and the unforgettable pressure moments. He advised the current squad to focus on contributing fully to the match and embracing the occasion rather than feeling overshadowed.

McFadden stressed that Denmark, while a strong team, is not among the world’s elite. He acknowledged Scotland’s recent inconsistent displays but highlighted the psychological difference: in Greece, the team focused on a draw, whereas against Denmark, a clear opportunity exists to secure the top spot.

Dodds echoed this, emphasizing that the reward at the end—the chance to qualify directly for the World Cup—will provide motivation, belief, and determination. Both ex-players suggested that with Hampden behind them and a positive mindset, Scotland could finally deliver the big performance the campaign has yet to produce.