Things aren't getting any easier for Scotland as they look to end a wretched run of defeats. After going down to Poland at Hampden and then Portugal in Lisbon in their opening two Nations League fixtures, Steve Clarke takes his side to Zagreb to face Croatia.
As expected, the Scos have found it tough since making the step up to the top tier of UEFA's newest competition. And that could affect our qualifying chances for the 2026 World Cup, with Nations League performances affecting the seeding for that qualifying draw.
Injuries have also compounded things. The likes of Kieran Tierney and Aaron Hickey have been longer term absentees. Now goalkeeper Angus Gunn and striker Lawrence Shankland have joined Scott McKenna on the treatment table, with Steve Clarke having to name five uncapped players to fill gaps in his squad for this month's double header.
That could give the likes of Ben Doak the chance to shine, however, as the Tartan Army cling to hope that they'll have something positive to focus on.