Scotland announces warm-up friendlies ahead of first World Cup in 28 years

Scotland has announced two warm-up friendlies ahead of the Tartan Army’s first World Cup in 28 years.

Steve Clarke is looking to test his side against non-European teams before making the trip across the pond this summer.

Following a dramatic qualifier against Denmark, which was sealed by Kenny McLean’s goal from the halfway line, Scotland will host fellow finalists Japan and Curacao at Hampden.

The Samurai Blue became the first team outside the host nations to qualify for the tournament with a 2-0 win over Bahrain in March last year.

The meeting between Scotland and Japan in Glasgow on March 28 will be the countries’ fourth meeting, with two goalless draws and a win for the Asian Cup quarter-finalists in the last three games.

On May 30, the Dark Blues will face Curacao for the first time. The Caribbean island became the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup after a draw against Jamaica concluded an unbeaten campaign.

Former Rangers boss Dick Advocaat will become the oldest coach at a World Cup, aged 78, when he steps into the dugout against Germany for Curacao in June.

A further two away friendlies are also due to be announced before Scotland head to America.

Scotland National Team head coach Steve Clarke said: “I’m delighted to confirm our two home friendly opponents.

“Following our normal approach of arranging tough friendly fixtures, we were pleased to secure the visit of Japan – who are in the top 20 of FIFA’s World Rankings.

“We’re also looking forward to welcoming Curacao to Glasgow, which should give us a feel for the CONCACAF federation before our game against Haiti.

“It will be great to meet up with the squad for the first time since that crazy, momentous night, when they took us back to the World Cup after such a long time.

“We can spend the first day reminiscing, but then it’s back to the serious business of preparing for the summer.”