Scotland’s World Cup preparations have taken a dramatic turn, and as someone who’s been following the team’s trajectory, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. The recent friendly against Curacao wasn’t just another warm-up game—it was a revealing moment that could reshape Steve Clarke’s strategy. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Lawrence Shankland and Findlay Curtis emerged as unlikely heroes, forcing us to rethink Scotland’s attacking dynamics.
Shankland’s Redemption Arc: More Than Just Goals
For an hour, Shankland seemed almost invisible, playing second fiddle to George Hirst. Personally, I think this speaks to a broader issue in football: the tendency to pigeonhole players into roles that don’t maximize their strengths. Shankland, Scotland’s most clinical striker, was running everywhere but where he’s most dangerous—the penalty box. It’s a classic case of a player sacrificing his natural game for the team’s structure. But when he finally shifted into his natural habitat, the result was inevitable: two goals that weren’t just finishes but statements.
What many people don’t realize is that Shankland’s impact goes beyond his goalscoring. His movement, even when he wasn’t scoring, created space for others. If you take a step back and think about it, this is the mark of a true number nine—someone who influences the game even when he’s not directly involved. Steve Clarke has a decision to make: stick with Che Adams, who’s been a stalwart, or embrace the Shankland era. In my opinion, the choice is clear. Shankland’s form is undeniable, and his ability to deliver in high-pressure moments is exactly what Scotland needs in the World Cup.
Findlay Curtis: The Fearless Newcomer
Then there’s Findlay Curtis, the 19-year-old who stepped into a nightmare scenario—a struggling team, a hostile atmosphere, and only his second international appearance. Yet, within three minutes, he scored. What this really suggests is that Curtis isn’t just a talented player; he’s mentally resilient. His fearlessness is a breath of fresh air, and his ability to make an immediate impact off the bench could be a game-changer for Scotland.
One thing that immediately stands out is how Curtis filled a void on the left side, a position where Scotland has been lacking depth. His crosses, his movement, and his willingness to take risks are exactly what a team needs when chasing a game. From my perspective, Curtis isn’t ready to start just yet, but as an impact sub, he’s already proven his worth.
The Curacao Game: A Tale of Two Halves
The match itself was a study in contrasts. When Curacao had 11 men, they were the better side—physical, organized, and dangerous. Scotland looked disjointed, and the stadium’s silence was deafening. But Jurgen Locadio’s red card changed everything. It’s easy to say Scotland only won because of the sending-off, but that’s oversimplifying it. What makes this interesting is how Scotland capitalized on the opportunity. They didn’t just win; they dominated, turning a potential embarrassment into a confidence-boosting victory.
This raises a deeper question: how will Scotland fare against full-strength opponents in the World Cup? The Curacao game was a reminder that football is as much about adaptability as it is about talent. Scotland showed they could turn things around, but against stronger teams, they’ll need to be proactive, not reactive.
Steve Clarke’s Dilemma: Tactics and Team Selection
Clarke now faces a series of tough decisions. Does he stick with a back four or switch to a back three? Does he start Shankland over Adams, or find a way to play both? These aren’t just tactical questions—they’re about identity. Scotland’s success in the World Cup will depend on how Clarke balances pragmatism with ambition.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how Shankland’s goalscoring record—23 goals in 37 matches—speaks to his consistency. He’s not just in form; he’s been in form for over a year. This isn’t a fluke; it’s a pattern. Yet, Clarke has been hesitant to fully commit to him. Why? Perhaps it’s the loyalty to Adams, or maybe it’s the fear of disrupting team chemistry. But if Scotland wants to avoid the regrets of past tournaments, they need to back their best players.
Looking Ahead: The Bolivia Test and Beyond
The final friendly against Bolivia will be crucial. It’s not just about fine-tuning tactics; it’s about building momentum and belief. Scotland’s players are still carrying the weight of past disappointments, particularly the Germany game two years ago. Clarke has said they’re using that anger as fuel, but words are one thing—actions are another.
In my opinion, Scotland has the talent to make a statement in the World Cup, but only if they embrace their strengths. Shankland up front, Curtis as a wildcard off the bench, and a tactical setup that maximizes their attacking potential. The pieces are there; it’s up to Clarke to put them together.
Final Thoughts: A New Chapter for Scotland?
As I reflect on Scotland’s journey so far, I’m struck by how quickly things can change in football. A week ago, Shankland was on the periphery, and Curtis was an afterthought. Now, they’re at the heart of Scotland’s World Cup hopes. What this really suggests is that football is as much about moments as it is about consistency. Scotland has the players, the talent, and the motivation. The question is: do they have the courage to take the leap?
Personally, I think they do. But only time will tell. One thing’s for sure—this World Cup won’t be boring for Scotland. And for fans like me, that’s all we can ask for.
