Scotland v Ukraine: What our writers think will happen at Hampden

Our team of writers try to predict the outcome of Scotland’s World Cup play-off against Ukraine ...

Alan Pattullo: The waiting is almost over. Are we better or less well equipped than we might have been in March, when the tie was originally meant to be played? It’s a moot point. There is the fervent wish that Kieran Tierney was available. We could have done with a fit Nathan Patterson too. Whatever Scotland’s problems, they are nothing compared to a Ukraine side who have several players who have not seen any competitive action for months for obvious reasons. And then there’s the mental impact of what is going on at home. It’s impossible to gauge what impact that might have. They will, though, be extremely motivated. Take that as read. But so will Scotland, roared on by a capacity crowd who are aching to see their side at another World Cup. It’s set to be an emotional, anxious and very possibly long night. Scotland 2 Ukraine 1 (aet).

Andrew Smith: Buckle up might be the best advice to give to any Scotland supporter heading along to Hampden. None of the elements that provide the backdrop to the country’s World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine suggest a straightforward encounter. It is difficult to know how the visitors will deal with the onerous responsibility placed on their shoulders to lift a nation ravaged by an horrendous war inflicted on them by Russia. Or how match-sharp the home-based players in their team will be following a month in a Slovenian training campaign, and a set of friendlies, subsequent to the necessary suspension of domestic football since the March invasion. If the Ukraine team can perform to their pre-war capabilities, then they are a side so evenly-matched with Steve Clarke’s men, it would