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Scotland learn Belarus World Cup qualifying venue but there's a major sticking point

Scotland learn Belarus World Cup qualifying venue but there's a major sticking point

Daily Record11 hours ago

UEFA have confirmed the venue in the western Hungarian outpost of Zalaegerszeg - 135 miles from the capital, Budapest
Scotland have discovered they will face Belarus in Hungry behind closed doors in their World Cup qualifier.
UEFA have confirmed the venue as Steve Clarke and his troops get ready to face the group minnows alongside Denmark and Greece as they bid to reach the Finals.

In their quest to reach USA, Canada and Mexico, Scotland come up against the outsiders on matchday two in September after a trip to Copenhagen to face top seeds Denmark.

The venue for that trip has now been confirmed and the clash will take place in the western Hungarian outpost of Zalaegerszeg - 135 miles from the capital, Budapest.
Belarus are not allowed to play their 'home' matches in their own country due to UEFA restrictions after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
And they will host the Scots - but not the Tartan Army - at the ZTE Arena, home of Zalaegerszegi TE.
Belarus have faced Bulgaria, Northern Ireland and Luxembourg at the venue in three previous Nations League outings they've had there and drew them all.
Northern Ireland were held to a goalless draw and boss Michael O'Neill wasn't happy about UEFA's decision to make them play there with no fans.
He said: "It will have the feel of a fixture played during Covid.

"It is not ideal making Belarus play us in a neutral venue, but we will have to deal with it and it will have a different feel.
"It's very disappointing for our fans that they are unable to attend the game."

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