Scotland will discover their World Cup 2026 qualifying group opponents this week, with the draw for the set to take place on Friday in Zurich.
It has been close to three decades since the Tartan Army were last at a World Cup, and Steve Clarke and his squad will be desperate to return to the world’s premiere football tournament for the first time since 1998.
Qualification for back-to-back European Championships, coupled with memorable wins over Spain, Norway and Croatia, have given Scotland fans hope that they can finally end their World Cup exile and seal their place at the 2026 tournament, which is set to take place across USA, Canada and Mexico.
With the draw for the European section of the qualifiers soon to be revealed, Scotland have been placed in pot three of the draw, where they will be drawn against one nations from pot one, one from pot two, one from pot four, and potentially one from pot five.
But who would be the best - and worst - teams for Scotland to be drawn against based on form and recent history? We rank all 41 of Scotland’s potential qualifying opponents, from most attractive to most difficult.
37. Italy - pot 1
After their disappointing show at Euro 2024, the Italians have started to put together a run of form - including an impressive 3-1 win over France in Paris recently. The Azzurri have a renewed sense of vigour at the moment and will be one of the teams Scotland want to avoid in the draw. Last 6 games: W4, D1, L1. | Getty Images
38. France - pot 1
A team that regularly reaches semi-finals and finals of major tournaments, France are one to avoid in the World Cup qualifiers. The sides recently met in a friendly which saw Didier Deschamps' men run out comfortable 4-1 winners. Not a team Scotland will be hoping to pull out of the hat in pot one. Last 6 games: W4, D1, L1. | Getty Images
39. England - pot 1
While an Auld Enemy clash at Hampden Park and Wembley would be mouth-watering for fans, there's no doubting it would be extremely tough for Steve Clarke's side. The rivalry means Scotland wouldn't be against drawing the Three Lions completely, but drawing one of Denmark, Croatia, Belgium or Austria from pot one would be preferable. Last 6 games: W5, D0, L1. | Getty Images
40. Germany - pot 1
Memories of that 5-1 defeat in the opening game of Euro 2024 still linger, don't they? From a fan's perspective, a trip back to Germany to build on the burgeoning relationship formed during the competition would be welcomed. On the pitch though, Germany are a real force to be reckoned with and have a number of world class youngsters, such as Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala. Best avoided. Last 6 games: W4, D2, L0. | Getty Images