Defeat to Wales last time out was a crushing blow to Craig Levein’s Scotland side, who now must win away in Belgium to hold any chance of World Cup qualification.

Another loss could also be fatal for Levein’s stewardship and will result in an uncomfortable soul-searching period for the game north of the border, with their domestic affairs in a certain amount of turmoil as well. Whilst Wales’ second half display warrants recognition, as do the world class talents of Gareth Bale, Scotland will feel that on another night their performance would have been enough to emerge with the points themselves after leading for much of the game and having what appeared to be a perfectly good goal chalked off when 1-0 up.

Belgium are rapidly becoming a fearsome force on the international stage and have a team littered with Premier League stars. The likes of Hazard, Kompany, Fellaini, Lukaku, Mirallas and Debele have all featured prominently in established top division clubs this season, and on paper look much stronger than their Scottish opponents. All are top players worthy of a mention, but it is hard not to be impressed with the way Mirallas has settled at Everton. Pacy and with an eye for goal, his performances this year have been key in the Toffees recent run of excellent form. His runs into the box from deeper, wider positions often make him difficult to track, and he may well be a good bet for the opening goal.

Scotland will have to strike first if they are going to have any chance of a result here, and Steven Fletcher is in golden scoring form. A punt on him to score at anytime for Sunderland this season has been money in the bank. However, in spite of the spirited display we should expect given that their qualification, and their manager, are on the line, still expect Belgium to triumph in the end. A draw half-time, Belgium full-time bet might be where the value is, rather than the ninety minute odds, so that’s where my money is going. More head-scratching for the SFA…

Belgium v Scotland Betting Tips

Draw HT/Belgium FT – 3/1 with Ladbrokes

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