Scotland are in action tonight as they take on Slovenia in their opening UEFA Nations League fixture in Ljubljana, with new manager Stevie Clarke replacement taking charge for the first time in a competitive setting.
The match marks the start of a fresh chapter for the national side as they look to put a disappointing end to their last campaign firmly behind them and hit the ground running in the new group stage format.
Scotland came into the tie with plenty to prove. The squad has been rebuilding confidence after a tough run of results, and the pressure is on from the off to show the fans back home that there is genuine cause for optimism heading into the next cycle of international football.
Slovenia, playing on home turf at the Stozice Stadium in Ljubljana, will be no pushovers. They are a well-organised side with quality throughout the squad and will fancy their chances of taking maximum points in front of their own supporters.
For Scotland though, this is exactly the kind of game they need to be winning if they are serious about progressing through the Nations League and keeping their hopes of future tournament qualification alive.
The Nations League has become an increasingly important competition for sides like Scotland, offering a genuine route back into major tournaments through the playoff system even if qualifying campaigns do not go to plan. Getting off to a strong start in the group stage is crucial.
Fans who made the trip over to Slovenia will be hoping for a performance that gives them something to shout about, while millions more back in Scotland will be watching on with a mix of hope and the kind of cautious optimism that tends to come naturally to Scottish football supporters.
Team news going into the game showed the new manager putting his stamp on things with his selection choices, looking to bring some fresh energy and a clear tactical identity to a squad that has plenty of talent when it all clicks together.
The midfield battle looks set to be key. Scotland will need to control possession and limit Slovenia the chance to build momentum in front of their home crowd. If the back line can stay solid and the attacking players get on the ball in dangerous areas, there is every reason to believe Scotland can come away with a positive result.
All eyes will be on how the new management setup handles things from the touchline, with this being the first real chance to see what kind of style and approach they intend to bring to the role on a consistent basis.
Whatever happens in Ljubljana tonight, it is only the beginning of what promises to be a fascinating Nations League group campaign for Scotland.