How Scotland's previous record againt Israel bodes well for crucial Euro 2020 play-off clash

Scotland have a great record against Israel, helped by James Forrest's hat-trick two years ago. (Picture: SNS/ Bill Murray)

Israel have only won once in six meetings, with Steve Clarke leading the Scots into a seventh and eighth over the next couple of months.

There’s been one draw between the sides – on the previous occasion Israel visited Hampden last month, and they’re back this week for the Euro 2020 play-off.

Here’s a look back at how the other meetings have finished...

Alex Ferguson, pictured with Yosef Mirmovitch, was Scotland manager when he took the national side to Israel for a 1986 friendly win. (Picture: SNS)

Israel 0-1 Scotland – February 24, 1981

Kenny Dalglish gave Scotland a World Cup qualifier win in the first time the teams had met for an international match.

Scotland 3-1 Israel – April 27, 1981

The return match saw wingers Davie Provan and John Robertson score, the latter a double, in front of 61,489 at Hampden en route to qualifying for Spain 1982 as group winners.

James Forrest claimed the match ball after a stunning performance two years ago. (SNS/Ross Parker)

Israel 0-1 Scotland – January 28, 1986

The only friendly match between the sides was decided by a Paul McStay goal as Scotland began preparing for the World Cup in Mexico with Alex Ferguson in charge.

Israel 2-1 Scotland – October 11, 2018

Charlie Mulgrew was on the scoresheet in a disappointing night for Scotland in Haifa under Alex McLeish.

Ryan Christie opened the scoring the last time the sides met at Hampden (Photo by Craig Williamson / SNS Group)

Scotland 3-2 Israel – November 27, 2018

Well remembered for James Forrest’s stunning performance where the Celtic winger scored a hat-trick to secure Nations League promotion and tomorrow’s Euro 2020 play-off.

Scotland 1-1 Israel – September 4, 2020

A Ryan Christie penalty after a promising first half had given hope for Scotland but they eased their grip on the game and Israel levelled in the second half for a disappointing result.