Scottish Sunday

Football: Michael Grant says Scotland will face a tough test in Dortmund and will have to perform at their optimum

Introduction

Scotland's national football team is set to face the tough challenge of playing against Germany in Dortmund for the third time in a row. Although Scotland has managed to secure positive results against Germany in the past, the upcoming match will be a true test for the team's capabilities.

A Formidable Opponent

Germany has not beaten Scotland in over a decade, with their last victory against Scotland dating back to a 1-0 defeat at Ibrox. Craig Brown achieved a memorable victory against Germany four years ago, but since then, Scotland's matches against Germany have been met with mixed results. Berti Vogts and his team held Germany to a 1-1 draw in June's Euro 2004 qualifier, but this time, they will face a much harsher examination in Dortmund.

The Defensive Challenge

Scotland's defense faces a daunting task in Dortmund. The odds are against them recording a clean sheet away from home against a German side who have scored in all but one of their last 15 competitive games. The partnership of Steven Pressley and Andy Webster, although promising, still showed vulnerability in their last match. However, they will have the opportunity to mature their partnership at the international level.

A Sturdy Performance Needed

The onus will be on the defense to hold out against Germany's aerial threat. Rab Douglas will need to offer a solid performance in goal, while Jackie McNamara and Gary Naysmith need to provide reliable support from the full-back positions. Pressley and Webster will be tasked with dealing with Germany's high balls into the box. If Scotland can subdue Germany's key players, such as Michael Ballack, they may stand a chance to get a result.

Hotels in Dortmund: Where to Stay During the Match?

Choosing the Right Accommodation

If you're planning to travel to Dortmund to watch the Scotland vs. Germany match, it's important to choose the right hotel for your stay. Dortmund offers a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some top hotel options in the city:

1. Hotel Excelsior

Located near the city center, Hotel Excelsior offers comfortable rooms and excellent service. It is conveniently situated close to public transportation, making it easy to travel to the Westfalenstadion where the match will be held.

2. Radisson Blu Hotel, Dortmund

This modern hotel offers stylish rooms and a range of amenities for guests. With its central location, it is ideal for exploring the city and is within reasonable distance of the stadium. The hotel also provides convenient access to public transportation.

3. NH Dortmund

Located in the heart of Dortmund, NH Dortmund offers comfortable and spacious rooms. The hotel is known for its friendly staff and convenient location, making it a great choice for football fans attending the match.

Final thoughts

Attending the Scotland vs. Germany match in Dortmund promises to be an exciting experience for football fans. Make sure to book your accommodation in advance to secure a comfortable stay during your visit to the city.