Spain defender Sergio Ramos has taken the time to praise Scotland ahead of its Euro 2012 Group I qualifier on Tuesday - and says he cannot understand why it has not yet secured second spot in their section.

Craig Levein's men caused the World Cup winners problems in their first encounter in October 2010, but were eventually beaten 3-2, and Ramos still vividly remembers last year's game.

"We have a great respect for this Scottish team and we know they will come here believing they can get a result.

"In fact, I wonder why Scotland haven't finished second in the group already because they are a good team. It's not something we can understand after that match in Scotland."

Scotland sits second in Group I, with a one-point lead over Czech Republic, and they need the full three points on Tuesday to be certain of a play-off berth.