Shane Long believes Republic of Ireland need to beat Scotland on the weekend to set up their Euro2016 qualifying campaign.
The Southampton striker and his Irish teammates are preparing for Friday night's Group D clash with the Scots in Glasgow which could ascertain whether or not Martin O'Neill's men can give themselves every chance of qualifying for the France tournament.
"It's massive," said Long.
"It could - and I might be over-reacting here - really make or break how we get on in this campaign. If we don't get beaten there, it will go a long way towards us qualifying."
Long is well aware that Scotland have improved out of sight under Gordon Strachan and expects it to be a very tricky contest at Celtic Park.
"Scotland have really upped their game [over] the last couple of years and they will see this as a chance to get three points as well," added Long.
"It's going to be a massive occasion and one I'm really eager to be a part of."
The Republic of Ireland currently sit second in their group with seven points from three matches while Scotland are fourth with four points from their trio of fixtures.
