Goalkeeper Angus Gunn, returning from Euro 2024, and uncapped Findlay Curtis make Scotland's 26-man squad for March friendlies against Japan and Ivory Coast. Gunn replaces injured Craig Gordon, while Curtis becomes the first senior call-up for the 19-year-old Kilmarnock midfielder. Scotland's first Hampden Park match since World Cup qualification will be against Japan, the first nation to qualify. Defenders Nathan Patterson and Dom Hyam return, while Grant Hanley remains despite injury absence.

Midfielder Andy Irving replaces Ben Gannon Doak, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury. Steven Naismith expresses 'very optimistic' views about Scotland progressing beyond the group stage for the first time, calling the squad a mix of leaders and young talent. Naismith believes the team has the quality to create history after ending the 28-year wait for World Cup qualification. Scotland's next matches include a May 30 friendly against Curacao and an overseas game in the USA before the Haiti opener in Group C.