Scotland v Czech Republic

Scotland will go into Saturday’s crunch match with the Czech Republic knowing that three points will breathe new life into their qualifying campaign for Euro 2012. Currently five points behind their upcoming visitors, but with a game in hand, Levein’s side will know this is their big chance. With that extra match being played against Lithuania, also at Hampden, next week, Scotland could be second in the group if everything goes to plan.

The Tartan Army know that their side is capable of unlikely feats in Glasgow. It’s not too long ago that France were defeated, and less than a year since even mighty Spain were given a massive scare having been pegged back from 2-0 up.

Crucially, the hosts have some team news in their favour. Captain Darren Fletcher is fit and raring to go after recovering from a mysery virus that has plagued his 2011. Charlie Adam hasn’t been injured, but he will surely play with a higher level of confidence than ever before in the blue of his country. He has settled quickly at Anfield and will suddenly feel like he belongs on the big stage regularly. Perhaps best of all, Petr Cech, one of the world’s finest goalkeepers will be absent in the visitors’ goal.

There is a feeling that this is the moment for Scotland to move forward. And the Czech Republic aren’t that special. A home defeat to Lithuania tells you that, and the 1-0 defeat of Scotland in Prague came after a late winner. I see no reason why that scoreline can’t be turned on its head at Hampden Park. Back Scotland to win 1-0 at best odds of 6/1 with WilliamHill.