George Burley's side must beat Holland at Hampden tomorrow night and then hope for favourable results from the other qualifying groups if they are to keep alive realistic hopes of a play-off place as one of eight best runners-up.

The Dutch have won all seven of their group matches so far, and in doing so became the first and so far only European country to book their place at next year's finals in South Africa.

Scotland's chances of joining them improved when they defeated Macedonia 2-0 at Hampden last weekend, and Butcher wants more of the same from the squad.

"We have to be strong," said Butcher.

"The result is the most important thing - and depending on how we achieve that, it could be a long night. It's not about winning the game in the first 20 minutes

"When you try to plot their downfall you realise it's a tall order, but it's a game we're looking forward to. You know you'll get the ball, so it's what you do with it that counts."

A Scottish win, coupled with a favourable set of results in Group 3, would see them tie up one of the eight play-off places. But on the other hand, a draw or defeat leaves them relying on a wholly unlikely switch in goal difference.

Norway face Macedonia in a match both need to win to stake their own claim for a play-off spot.

While a draw would aid Scotland's claims, a victory for either team - coupled with a Holland win - would leave things to be sorted out on goal difference.

Norway, who came away with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Iceland on Saturday, are best-placed of the three in terms of goal difference.

Iceland's campaign is already over and they are already consigned to finishing bottom on five points.