Scotland will be hoping to take another step closer to a play-off berth when they travel to Norway.
Burley's side looking for priceless points on the road to South Africa
Scotland will be hoping to take another step closer to a play-off berth when they travel to Norway on Wednesday for their latest 2010 World Cup qualifier.
George Burley's side currently occupy second spot in Group Nine, and could move three points clear of Macedonia with victory in midweek.
Holland, who boast a 100 per cent record in their campaign so far, have already secured their place at next summer's tournament, so the race is on to secure a runners-up spot.
Norway's ambitions of snatching that standing appear to have been extinguished, with the Scandinavians taking just three points from their opening five fixtures.
That leaves them firmly rooted to the foot of the table, and defeat against the Scots would end their World Cup dreams for another four years.
They remain a tricky side to negotiate, though, and will not make life easy for Burley's troops in Oslo.
Pedigree
Egil Olsen's side boasts a number of players currently plying their trade in Europe's top divisions and their pedigree should not be underestimated.
They have suffered no withdrawals since naming their squad for Wednesday's crunch clash, so Olsen will have the luxury of choosing from a full-strength group.
That means Fulham centre-half Brede Hangeland should lead the side, while Aston Villa frontman John Carew will spearhead the attack.
Blackburn's Morten Gamst Pedersen will also be hoping for a run-out, while Scotland will need no introduction to former Tottenham and Wolves striker Steffen Iversen.
Norway are also expected to field the Riise brothers, John Arne and Bjorn Helge, with the latter having recently completed a move to Craven Cottage.
Options
For Scotland, Burley has been keeping his cards close to his chest during the build-up to the game.
With first-choice keeper Craig Gordon currently sidelined, it remains to be seen whether Neil Alexander or David Marshall will be given the nod between the sticks.
At the back, Callum Davidson could be handed his first international outing in seven years, while Gary and Steven Caldwell are likely to be paired together at the heart of the defence.
Celtic midfielder Scott Brown is tipped to return following ankle surgery and Manchester United ace Darren Fletcher will again skipper the side.
Kenny Miller can expect to plough a lone furrow up front, with the likes of James McFadden waiting in the wings should they be required.
