The Scots struggled against Israel in Haifa despite a convincing win against Albania in their opening Nations League match, and were also defeated 3-1 by a weakened Portugal side in a friendly on Sunday.
Scotland need to overcome a three-point deficit in their group as they take on Albania and Israel again next month, yet Aston Villa's John McGinn is confident his country have the strength to do so.
He remarked: "We've always got belief in ourselves.
"Obviously Thursday was a confidence-shattering night, a night where we all didn't turn up and we know that.
"We had to restore a bit of pride and for long spells in the game we did that. But we know how important these next two games are. We are back to our clubs now but in four weeks' time we will be ready for these games.
"The last couple of days were tough for everyone but when you're a football player you need to stand strong, puff out your chest and realise criticism will come, the same way praise does.
"You are happy to take the praise when it comes so criticism is part of it, you just have to puff your chest out and show people what you are made of, and I think for long periods we did that.
"It was a short turnaround so we only managed to go over a few things, but we highlighted the main things and I think overall it was a better performance.
"We are still giving away silly goals which we all know and need to address. Overall a better performance, but still things we need to improve on for the two massive games coming up."