Ten sections will be drawn consisting of either five or six teams in each on December 7 in Zurich, Switzerland.
Scotland are ranked in the third group of teams alongside the likes of Russia, Norway, Northern Ireland, Hungary, Iceland and the Republic of Ireland, which means Steve Clarke’s team won’t be travelling to any of these venues as part of their endeavours to reach a second consecutive major tournament.
But they could be paired with recent adversaries Israel again, or sent to other recent venues like Kazakhstan, Gibraltar or Slovakia. There could even be a second trip of 2021 to Wembley on the cards if the draw falls in one particular order.
We’ve assessed the structure of the pots and come up with a best-case scenario for the Tartan Army, and a Group of Death, below.
Do you agree?
1. Italy
There are many teams to avoid in Pot 1 but this draw would not only bring back painful memories of 2007, it'd also group Steve Clarke's side with a nation Scotland have beaten just ONCE in 11 attempts. World ranking - 12. Photo: SNS Group Steve Welsh
2. Switzerland
Another from the unsuccessful 1994 qualifying section, Switzerland are the highest ranked team in Pot 2 and have held Germany and Spain to draws in recent months. One to be avoided with better alternatives around. WR - 16 Photo: FABRICE COFFRINI
3. Scotland
Scotland are in Group 3. World Ranking - 45 Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
4. Israel
Let's just not. Scotland have faced Israel three times in three months and five times in the last two years. They're a potential Pot 4 opponent but the games have been chess matches between two familiar foes. WR - 88 Photo: JACK GUEZ