A place in the Qatar World Cup is two games away for Scotland, a first appearance at the major tournament since 1998.
A place in what is effectively the play-off final against Wales awaits on Sunday, and 'all' we have to do is get past Ukraine at Hampden tonight in the semi-final. That's easier said than done, for a number of reasons, not least of all that they're ranked quite a bit higher than ourselves.
This clash was due to take place in March, but events overtook that, with Russia's invasion pretty understandably forcing a postponement.
It hasn't been ideal preparation for Scotland's opponents for this evening's clash, but UEFA insist the show goes on, so the game will be played to a finish.
Given these circumstances, Scotland are favourites to win this one, a tag they've never really been comfortable with in the past.
But this represents a huge opportunity for Steve Clarke's side, who have won their last six World Cup qualifying matches, conceding just twice.
Ukraine were unbeaten in qualifying, but too many draws saw them finish a distant second to France. However, their away form was strong, taking eight points from a possible 12, including a 1-1 draw in Paris.
Scotland go into this one with almost a full squad from which to choose, though Kieran Tierney still sits this one out.
We're all as tense as you are for this one, but the Lanarkshire Live Sport team give you their predictions ahead of the big game.
PAUL THOMSON
The wait is finally over and Scotland go in as favourites after the plight of their opponents in recent months.
That aside, this is still a strong squad despite the huge absences in the form of the ever-dependable Kieran Tierney and midfield marshal Ryan Jack.
But we've got Super John McGinn and Billy Gilmour among a tight-knit squad bang on form that can make it nine games unbeaten. There's also good options available from the bench with Ross Stewart in the squad.
Intense patriotism will drive the visitors on and with Roman Yaremchuk - who netted for Benfica at Anfield against Liverpool in the Champions League quarter-finals - among the ranks they certainly pose a real goal threat. They've also not lost in their last seven games.
However, given the preparation Scotland have had compared to their counterparts, it's a game they should squeeze through in on an emotionally-charged night at Hampden.
Scotland 2 Ukraine 1
ANDY McGILVRAY
Scotland are two games away from qualifying for the first World Cup finals since 1998 and the entire country has been waiting almost with baited breath for this one. It's huge.
This is the best squad Scotland have had for some time, so should go into it with confidence, even without talisman Kieran Tierney, and with Hampden rocking, hopefully we can get over the line and into the final. I fear Gareth Bale more than I worry about Wales, but we'll take it a game at a time.
Ukraine have hardly had ideal preparation for this one but they will be fired up, given everything that has happened, and Scotland need to be prepared for that.
However, it's what WE do that will hopefully count and I reckon we'll make this less nerve-wracking than it usually is.
It may be a bold prediction, given the circumstances, but I'm going for Scotland 2, Ukraine 0 .
BEN BANKS
Perhaps previously, Scotland fans would head into matches like this with a sense of trepidation. Not anymore, such is the confidence installed in them by Steve Clarke.
It’s unfathomable the tragedy each opposition player has had to face in the last few months but just as they will for 90 minutes, emotions have to be parked.
The eyes of the footballing world will be on this for what will no doubt be an emotional affair, with Scotland the team everyone wants to lose. Outside the Tartan Army, of course.
Ukraine are undefeated since last summer’s Euros, yet have only won twice, so a tight encounter likely awaits.
Should the back three do their jobs, I’d trust the forward line to grab at least a goal more than their visitors.
Scotland 1-0 Ukraine .
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