Scotland made its first appearance in the World Cup since 1998 and earned its first World Cup victory since 1990, when it beat Sweden 2-1. John McGinn deflected a shot off an opposing defender and past goalkeeper Johny Placide in the 28th minute, and Scotland defeated Haiti 1-0 in Group C of the World Cup on Saturday.
Scotland’s Victory
Coach Steve Clarke made it clear he didn’t enjoy his first two experiences leading Scotland during lackluster showings in the European Championship. So far the sport’s biggest stage has brought him — and the Scots — a lot more luck.
Scotland, making its first appearance in the tournament since 1998, earned its first World Cup victory since 1990, when it beat Sweden 2-1. “When it went into the back of the net, you could feel the Scotland fans,” McGinn said.
Getting those crucial points did a lot more than that. Group favorites Brazil and Morocco played to a 1-1 draw earlier in the day, putting Scotland at the top of the group standings.
Haiti, whose only other World Cup appearance was in West Germany in 1974, is still in search of its first World Cup point. The Grenadiers had multiple chances in the second half but couldn’t quite equalize.
McGinn’s goal came off a rebound from Che Adams’ miss in the box that bounced off Placide and into open space. McGinn’s shot ricocheted off a defender from 13 yards out.
Next Matches
Scotland stays in town to play Morocco at Gillette Stadium on Friday. Haiti will next face Brazil on Friday in Philadelphia.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
