Scotland’s 28-year wait to qualify for the World Cup was finally ended last month when their memorable 4-2 win over Denmark saw them top their group and gain a direct passage to next summer’s tournament.
Set to take place across USA, Mexico, and Canada, Steve Clarke’s side won’t have to wait anywhere near as long to discover who they will face at the competition, with the draw set to take place at the Kennedy Center in the American capital of Washington DC on Friday, December 5.
With Scotland placed in pot 3 of the draw, they know they will face a nation from pot 1, pot 2, and pot 4 - but which nations would be the most difficult to face?
Here, The Scotsman rank every pot 2 team in the World Cup 2026 draw ranked on difficulty, from easiest to most difficult. Do you agree with our rankings?
13. Croatia (Difficulty rating: 7)
The highest-ranked team in pot 2, Croatia, are known for turning on the style in major tournaments. While Scotland beat them in their last meeting during the Nations League, there are easier opponents that Steve Clarke's side could be pitted against. | Srdjan Stevanovic Photo: Srdjan Stevanovic