T - 6 days … already planning a consolation match

In 6 days, the fates of three footballing nations and their teams will be decided on the pitch at Hampden Park in Glasgow. Scotland v. Italy is arguably one of the biggest games in Scottish football history, and would certainly be one of the biggest wins if we pulled it off.

Of course, the preparations for the game by our opponent have been overshadowed by much more important events. I have been critical of Italian football and its problems in the past, but now is not the time for that. For myself and all Scotland supporters everywhere, I offer condolences to everyone affected by the shooting and the subsequent violence. I’ve found myself talking about this match as the “life or death” match for Scotland’s qualification, but obviously the events of this weekend make it clear how often we misuse that sort of term. I hope Italian fans who come to Glasgow are welcomed and treated to the best hospitality that Scotland can muster, and I hope whatever happens in Italy does not lead to any more senseless death.

Anyway, in a typically defeatist Scottish move, the SFA is already publicly planning what we’ll be doing with our summer vacation if we DON’T make Euro 2008. If Scotland and England both fail to qualify, there is talk of arranging a head-to-head friendly next summer. Though I am far from conceding defeat, and believe this kind of talk is best left for after the match, I must admit how much I’d love to see this match happen. Since the Home Nations tournament fell apart, we haven’t gotten a chance to take on the Three Lions very often, and I think both sides miss the rivalry. Even if we and/or the English make the finals, we should make this happen.

More on the match as it gets closer. For the latest on events in Italy, stick with Martha and the Italy Offside blog, who’s done an excellent job covering it so far.

Category: Scotland National Team

Tags: Euro 2008, Italy, Match countdown, Scotland National Team

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