Scotland v Belarus: Set for Hampden clash in World Cup qualifying
Scotland return to Hampden Park in Glasgow for a pivotal World Cup qualifier against Belarus on Sunday, 12 October. The match kicks off at 17:00 BST and will be shown live on BBC Scotland, BBC Two and the BBC iPlayer, with radio coverage from BBC Radio Scotland and Radio Nan Gaidheal. Fans can also follow the action via live text on the BBC Sport website and app, along with in-play clips.
Team news: Hickey ruled out, new faces get first call-ups
Scotland captain Steve Clarke faces a setback as Aaron Hickey is set to miss the Belarus game through injury. The Brentford full-back sustained a knock in the build-up to Sunday’s game and the Scottish FA confirmed he would not feature. Clarke revealed that Hickey was already a doubt after picking up a knee knock, and the strain has been aggravated in the later stages of recent action.
To cover Hickey’s absence, Clarke has summoned Derby County’s Max Johnston as defensive cover. In a further reshuffle, Scotland have called up two midfielders for their first senior caps: 22-year-old Josh Mulligan and Rangers youngster Connor Barron.
Mulligan, who made a big impression after moving from Dundee to Hibernian this summer, earns a first senior call-up after an outstanding period in the Scottish Premiership. Barron, a 23-year-old full of potential, has one cap to his name, earned as a substitute in Scotland’s 3-1 friendly win over Liechtenstein in June.
Both Mulligan and Barron replace players suspended for this Group C fixture—Lewis Ferguson of Bologna and Ryan Christie of Bournemouth—who picked up bookings in the 3-1 win over Greece at Hampden Park on Thursday.
What this means for Scotland
The absence of Hickey robs Clarke of one of his key attacking full-backs, but the inclusion of two fresh faces adds a new dynamic to the squad. Mulligan’s rise this season has made him a compelling option for midfield depth, and Barron’s versatility could give Clarke tactical flexibility in midfield and on the wing as the game develops.
Scotland are keen to secure a strong result at home in this qualifying campaign as they chase the momentum needed to advance. Belarus present a tricky but beatable test if Scotland’s attackers can exploit space and quality in the wide channels, while ensuring solidity in midfield to weather Belarus’ counters.
Belarus: What to expect
Belarus will travel to Glasgow with a plan to disrupt Scotland’s rhythm and strike on the counter. They will be up against a Scottish side hungry for a statement win in front of the Hampden faithful. The visitors will rely on compact organisation and quick transitions, aiming to frustrate Scotland and latch onto any slip-ups in the final third.
Match-ups to watch
• Aaron Hickey’s replacement risk: With Hickey out, who steps up at full-back or wing-back? Will Mulligan’s inclusion shift the midfield balance in Clarke’s setup?
• Barron’s debut pressure: How quickly can the Rangers man adapt to senior international level and contribute to Scotland’s pressing game?
• Midfield battle: Expect a technical duel in the middle of the park as Scotland seek to dominate possession and create chances for their forwards.
How to follow live
BBC Scotland, BBC Two and BBC iPlayer will carry live coverage. Radio listeners can tune into BBC Radio Scotland and Radio Nan Gaidheal for commentary, with live text updates and in-play clips available on the BBC Sport website and app. Fans are encouraged to join the conversation online as the action unfolds.
Why this matters for Scotland
Scotland’s qualification hopes hinge on securing points in front of their home crowd. While Hickey’s injury is a setback, the arrival of Mulligan and Barron could inject fresh energy and competition within the squad. Clarke’s decision to call up cover players emphasizes the importance of squad depth in a long qualifying campaign and sends a message about competing for every point available in Group C.
Bottom line
Sunday’s clash at Hampden offers Scotland a chance to consolidate their position in World Cup qualifying while fielding new blood alongside experienced pros. The result could influence qualification dynamics and set the tone for the remainder of the campaign.
