Scotland manager Craig Levein insists his players have no reason to fear their decisive Euro 2012 qualifier against world champions Spain on Tuesday.
The Scots moved one point above the Czech Republic into second place in Group I after Craig Mackail-Smith’s first goal in his first international start clinched a 1-0 win over Liechtenstein at the Rheinpark Stadium on Saturday.
Levein’s side travel to Alicante for their final fixture knowing they will clinch a place in the Euro 2012 play-offs if they can match the Czech Republic’s result in their match in Lithuania.
Taking on a team of Spain’s immense talent would normally represent a daunting challenge for Scotland’s collection of journeymen, but Vicente del Bosque’s side have nothing to play for as they have already qualified as group winners.
Levein believes Scotland’s extra motivation could prove the difference, providing they aren’t intimidated by Spain’s reputation.
“Our intention was to move into second place in the table and now we are in the position where the second place is ours to lose,” he said.
“We are in a position I would have taken at the start of the campaign, where if we win the game we finish second, that’s a fact. It is a tall order, we understand that but there is nothing for us to fear, that is the important thing, there is nothing to fear.
“We are playing the world champions of course, but we are in the position where if we win the game we qualify.
“I believe wholeheartedly in the players and their ability to rise to the challenge. We can’t go in the game relying on what happens in Lithuania, we have no influence over that.
“So, it makes complete sense for me to do everything I can to win the game on Tuesday.”
Levein’s only concern is over the fitness of Aston Villa midfielder Barry Bannan, who suffered an Achilles injury against Liechtenstein, and Liverpool midfielder Charlie Adam, who also picked up a knock in Vaduz.
Steven Naismith had missed three good chances before Brighton striker Mackail-Smith, playing in place of injured Kenny Miller, headed Phil Bardsley’s cross over Peter Jehle in the 32nd minute to secure three crucial points.