Scotland and Hungary have a long-standing footballing history, with the first encounter dating back to 1937. They have played ten times in international football, with Scotland winning five, Hungary winning four, and one tie. Their most recent meeting occurred in 2018 during the UEFA Nations League, which Scotland won 1-0. As of April 2023, Scotland is rated 32nd in the FIFA World Rankings, with Hungary at 40th. This suggests that Scotland has a significantly higher status in international football right now.
According to the most recent FIFA rankings, Scotland is rated 39th, whereas Hungary is placed 52nd, indicating that Scotland has a somewhat higher status in the global football scene.
Scotland and Hungary shared a group in the 2022-2023 UEFA Nations League. Scotland won the group with 11 points, and Hungary finished third with 7 points.
Scotland’s squad features experienced players like Andy Robertson (Liverpool), Scott McTominay (Manchester United), and John McGinn (Aston Villa), as well as young talent like Billy Gilmour (Chelsea). Their strengths including a strong defensive unit and good set-piece play. However, a lack of consistent attacking threat and limited depth in certain positions could be challenging. Similarly, Hungary boasts a solid squad with key players like Willi Orban (RB Leipzig) and Dominik Szoboszlai (RB Leipzig). Their strengths include having a strong midfield, good counter-attacking ability and an experienced manager. Although, they can struggle against teams with more technical ability.
Scotland had a far stronger performance against Switzerland on Wednesday. Therefore, it is anticipated that they will maintain a similar lineup. However, there will be a necessary substitution due to Kieran Tierney's hamstring injury. Scott McKenna ought to be included with Grant Hanley and Jack Hendry in the defensive trio, although Ryan Porteous will continue to be ineligible due to suspension.
Scotland has qualified for the UEFA European Championship three times (1992, 1996, and 2020), while Hungary has qualified five times (1964, 1972, 1980, 2016, and 2020).
Scotland is anticipated to play in a 3-5-2 or 4-3-3 configuration, with full-backs and wingers occupying the wide areas. Hungary, on the other hand, is expected to use a 3-5-2 or 4-2-3-1 style, emphasising a compact defensive shape and counter-attacking.
Based on the analysis, Scotland has a slight edge in terms of overall quality. However, the match will likely be close, and the outcome will depend on how both teams perform on the day.
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