Johannesson to shock Scots

WC Qualifiers

Olafur Johannesson is aiming for another surprise success when Iceland take on Scotland in Reykjavik on Wednesday.

Johannesson was at the helm when Icelandic minnows Hafnarfjordur sent Dunfermline crashing out of the UEFA Cup back in 2004.

Now in charge of the national team, he believes Scotland are also there for the taking following a disappointing start to their World Cup qualifying campaign with a defeat in Macedonia.

"We can do it again," he insisted.

"We are the underdogs against Scotland. But anything can happen and they are not in the best shape at the moment.

"In their last games, they haven't played well and have had problems on the field. It's an opportunity for us.

"We had a very good draw against Norway so we are ready for this game."

Scotland boast a 100% record from their four previous meetings with Iceland, the most recent of those during Berti Vogts' ill-fated reign.

"It's time for that to change," said Johannesson.

"Every team goes out to try to win a game and we are no different. How big our chances are, we will find out."

He was keen to play down Iceland's chances of qualification, insisting a "miracle" would be needed to take them to South Africa in 2010.

But he will still be gunning for a win against the Scots.

"Holland are the favourites to win the group, they are the best team," he said.

"Macedonia, Norway and Scotland are similar teams and are a little bit ahead of us. Any of these three could be second - if we were to finish second, it would be a miracle.

"Our chances of qualifying are very small. But the good thing about football is that anything can happen. I'm hoping that's what will happen.

"If Scotland have no points after two games then I would be happy about that, that's for sure.

"It would be outstanding for me but I only have one point at the moment. It would be outstanding to win this game.

"But they have good players and we have to take care of them all."