7M - International Friendly Preview: Scotland vs Curacao - prediction, team news, lineups

Steve Clarkes Scotland squad are preparing to fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming 2026 World Cup with an international friendly encounter against Curacao at Hampden Park on Saturday.

The Tartan Army are looking to get back on track after suffering consecutive friendly defeats in March, failing to score in losses against both Japan and the Ivory Coast. Despite recent setbacks, Scotland have been highly reliable on home soil, winning three of their previous five fixtures at Hampden Park and scoring at least twice in each of those victories.

Curacao, managed by Dick Advocaat, travel to Glasgow with defensive concerns after conceding seven goals in their previous two matches. Their squad is largely comprised of players competing outside of Europes top leagues, and they face a steep challenge against a side gearing up for the world stage.

Team News

Scotland striker Tommy Conway has been left out of the 26-man World Cup squad as he requires surgery on an ankle injury, while Oli McBurnie is also absent despite scoring 17 goals to inspire Hull City to Premier League promotion. New Rangers signing Lawrence Shankland will be pushing to start up front, while star names such as Scott McTominay, John McGinn, and captain Andrew Robertson could also feature.

For Curacao, full-back Livano Comenencia is a doubt with a minor knock, while winger Kenji Gorre is nursing a knee problem. Advocaat is unlikely to take any risks with the duo. Midfielder Juninho Bacuna is closing in on 50 international caps and could feature alongside his brother and captain Leandro Bacuna. Former PSV striker Jurgen Locadia and Sheffield United winger Tahith Chong are both strong contenders to start in attack.

Scotland possible starting lineup:
Gunn; Patterson, Hendry, McKenna, Tierney; Gilmour, McLean, Christie; Gannon-Doak, Shankland, McGinn. 

Curacao possible starting lineup:
Room; Sambo, Van Eijma, Obispo, Floranus; L. Bacuna, Roemeratoe, J. Bacuna; Hansen, Locadia, Chong. 

Prediction: Scotland 2-0 Curacao.