Scotland’s Under-17 side begin their campaign to become the best side in Europe today when they meet Portugal in the UEFA European Championship Finals in Malta.
The young Scots reached the eight-team finals after coming through an Elite qualifying group containing Bosnia-Herzegovina, Belgium and Romania back in March with three wins from three games.
As well as facing the cream of Portuguese talent, Scotland, who include Dundee striker Craig Wighton, will face Germany on Monday and then Switzerland next Thursday as they look to make an impression on the big stage.
National coach Scott Gemmill said: “This is Scotland’s first finals at this age group for six years so it is a big occasion for everyone.
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“We have been working towards this week for 18 months and it is my job to ensure that the boys handle being one of the last eight teams in the competition.”
The game at the Gozo Stadium in Xewkija will see Scotland face a side that qualified in fine style as well.
Gemmill noted: “All the teams here are big footballing nations and we have a tough opener as Portugal won the three games in their Elite Group by the same 3-0 scoreline.
“I have watched their games and they are a big and strong side but we have a group of players that can play against that level of opposition.
“Our players should see this as a great opportunity to show what they can do. We have not set any expectations but we know that we have players that can make a name for themselves in this tournament.”
Win, lose or draw Gemmill is sure that there will be a longer term benefit for Scotland.
He added: “Regardless of the results we secure the players will come back from this tournament better players. They are playing against the best players from Europe and they will benefit from that.”
Today’s game kicks off at 2.15pm UK time, and is being shown live on British Eurosport2.