Scotland v Iceland: Prediction, where to watch, free tips and bet builder

In normal circumstances, few would bat an eyelid at a couple of inconsequential summer matches against two European minnows. But for Scotland, these aren’t ordinary times.

Steve Clarke and his men have a big World Cup qualifying campaign ahead of them – one which could end their 26-year exile from the event.

The Scots have been put in a group alongside Denmark, Greece and Belarus – far from the group of death and one which the Scots will feel is winnable.

In order to give the qualifying campaign their best shot, the Scots need to make the most of their preparation.

Clarke appears to be using these next two games as testing ground, having named seven uncapped players in his squad.

While Iceland and Lichtenstein won’t bring the best out of the Scots, these games are an opportunity to test formations, tactics and allow new players to get a feel for the squad.

The more players at his disposal, the more flexibility Clarke will have once the qualifying campaign gets underway.

On top of that, the Scots will be looking to rebuild momentum which dissipated somewhat following their defeat to Greece last time out.

Scotland were condemned to Nations League relegation as a result of their defeat to the Greeks, though their shot at revenge will come during the World Cup qualifying campaign.

Here, we take a closer look at Friday’s encounter and pick out some of the best bets along the way.

Scotland v Iceland 7/1 bet builder

Both teams to score – 1/1

Over 2.5 goals – 1/1

Scotland most corners – 1/2

Goals in both halves – 5/6

Good luck and please gamble responsibly.

Suffering relegation in the Nations League was extra bitter considering the Scots won their first leg away against Greece before suffering a thumping 3-0 defeat at home.

Before that second result, Clarke’s men were on a four-match unbeaten run which included victories over Poland and Croatia.

Iceland, meanwhile, endured a torrid Nations League campaign, one which saw them finish second-bottom.

The days of Euro 2016 are long in the past for Iceland who have slumped to 74th in the world rankings.

Despite this, Iceland are dangerous when it comes to scoring goals. The national side have scored at least one goal in eight straight matches, with their last goalless performance coming against the Netherlands back in the summer of 2024.

Bearing everything in mind, we’re backing both teams to score, over 2.5 goals and goals in both halves. With Scotland playing at home, we’re also backing the hosts to have the most corners.

Where to watch Scotland v Iceland

Fans can follow live coverage on the BBC Sport app and website. Friday’s match kicks off at 1945 BST.

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