What do Scotland need to do? It's a wee bit more than 'no hellish much' but the road to Germany is proving to be an autobahn in the stars with no traffic to slow us down.
Seriously, it's on in a major way after the epic 2-1 win over Norway as we now sit eight, yes, EIGHT points clear of our likeliest rivals to finish in the top two spots of Group A with Spain. Scotland know Erling Haaland and Co will need a comeback for the ages if they or, perhaps Georgia, are able to overhaul Steve Clarke's side.
The expansion of UEFA's marquee international tournament means two out of five sides from our section will head to Germany. So let's make it simple; Norway need to cut an eight-point deficit in five games and Scotland will be aiming to shut that door long before they meet on the final match night at Hampden on November 19 this year.
Clarke's conquerors would need to start doing everything wrong while Haaland and his mates would need to come alive. Possible, of course, but Norway's A-list names had a look of resignation and the table below shows how far they have got to climb.
And the next clash against Georgia feels vital for so many reasons. It would be the first time in history Scotland would ever have won their first four group stage games and dent Georgia as potential rivals to finish in the top two. The stakes are that high as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and his pals head to Hampden on Tuesday night.
Sometimes these groups feel like a slog but Scotland are in prime position to qualify and that win over Spain has a double advantage. The Nations League finalists now need to make sure there are no more slips in their final games after their pain at the hands of Scotland on matchday two. Norway have Cyprus and Georgia at home next so that SHOULD get Haaland get going. But as we have found out already - only our heroes are making light work of a chance to party in Germany.
Here's Scotland's fixtures to come.
Tuesday, 20 June 2023 (Kick-off: 7.45pm) - Scotland v Georgia
Friday, 8 September 2023 (Kick-off: 7.45pm) - Cyprus v Scotland
Thursday, 12 October 2023 (Kick-off: 7.45pm) - Spain v Scotland
Thursday, 16 November 2023 (Kick-off: 5pm) - Georgia v Scotland.
Sunday, 19 November 2023 (Kick-off: 7.45pm) - Scotland v Norway
