The pursuit of European football glory is on the horizon for Scotland, particularly as the squad prepares for the decisive second leg of the Euro 2025 play-off against Finland. The initial leg didn’t quite meet expectations, culminating in a goalless draw that highlighted a significant gap between potential and performance. Notably, prominent players such as Caroline Weir, Erin Cuthbert, and Sam Kerr were unable to capitalize on their collective talents, leaving Scottish fans yearning for more insight into the team’s capabilities.
After a great performance against Hungary leading to high hopes, the players found themselves lacking that “spark” during the match against Finland, according to former Scotland goalkeeper Gemma Fay. This sentiment reflects not only the stunted gameplay exhibited during the 90 minutes but also the overall spirit of the previous run against Hungary where everything seemed to align perfectly for Scotland. With manager Pedro Martinez Losa at the reins, expectations were raised once again, but the overwhelming sense of anticipation was ultimately dampened as Scotland struggled to replicate their prior success.
Scotland had promised much ahead of the match, particularly with their strong showing at Easter Road against Hungary, where confidence was high, and the players found rhythm both individually and collectively. However, as the match unfolded, anxieties evident in their body language signaled a return to form was painfully absent. The team’s midfield—which had previously excelled—seemed to falter, a dire contrast to their performance from weeks prior.
A recurring theme discussed in the wake of the Finland match is the underwhelming performances of the squad’s star players. As current players known for their talent, many were left wondering why the likes of Weir and Cuthbert weren’t able to assert their influence on the game. Critics pointed to their inability to shine amid increased pressure, with even Scotland’s backline feeling the intense weight of expectation when they, too, fell behind the pace set by their opponents.
Despite being on home turf, where they were expected to dominate, Scotland found themselves overwhelmed by Finland’s tenacity and aggressive presiding over the ball. The slow tempo exhibited by the Scots and the hesitation to take initiative left many fans scratching their heads in confusion. Leading voices like former defender Emma Black voiced their frustrations: Scotland looked more like a shadow of the vibrant team that had played against Hungary and less like the formidable unit expected to advance into the Euro finals.
The call-to-action is imminent: the next match in Helsinki is already being branded as a “cup final” for Scotland—a must-win scenario where all hands must be on deck. Weir echoed this sentiment, identifying the resolve needed as they approach this potential crucible. Hopes can still bridge the gap to success; however, Scotland must rally their resources and acknowledge that their big players, those capable of delivering the moments of magic, must rise to the occasion on the European stage.
Finland’s head coach, Marko Saloranta, noted the disparity between the tangible qualities of Scotland’s lineup compared to their actual performance in the match, observing they did not live up to lofty expectations. The reality is stark: if Scotland wishes to have any hope of moving forward, they must harness the talent they possess and quicken their pace ahead of the challenge that lies ahead in Helsinki. Only then can they transition from a goalless draw to a triumphant ascent towards the appearing Euro dream, transforming potential into reality under pressure.
