John McGinn scored a dramatic late goal to give Scotland a 1-0 win over Croatia in their penultimate UEFA Nations League Group A1 match on Friday night. The victory, secured with just four minutes remaining, ended Scotland’s winless run in the competition and boosted their hopes of avoiding relegation from the top tier.
Scotland had to withstand sustained pressure in the first half as Croatia dominated possession and created several opportunities but was unable to break the deadlock. The turning point came just before halftime when Croatian midfielder Petar Sucic was shown a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on John Souttar in the 44th minute. The sending-off left Croatia with 10 men for the remainder of the match, and it proved to be a decisive moment.
Also read: Lyon Face Transfer Ban and Provisional Relegation Due to Financial Mismanagement
The Tartan Army roared in celebration in the 86th minute when McGinn, who had been quiet for much of the match, pounced on a loose ball in the box. Ben Doak, who had been a standout for Scotland in the second half, delivered a superb cross from the right flank. Croatian goalkeeper Andrej Kramaric attempted to punch clear but only succeeded in deflecting the ball into McGinn’s path. The Aston Villa midfielder calmly fired past Kramaric to give Scotland the lead and seal all three points.
The match saw Croatia miss several key chances before the red card, with Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn forced into several vital saves. Croatia’s frustrations grew as captain Luka Modric was booked for arguing with the referee in the first half, meaning the veteran midfielder will miss Monday’s crucial match against Portugal.
Also read: Argentina Stunned by Paraguay, Brazil Held to Draw by Venezuela in World Cup Qualifiers
The result means Scotland move level on four points with third-placed Poland, who were beaten 5-1 by Portugal earlier in the evening. However, the Scots remain at the bottom of the group, with a final showdown against Poland scheduled for Monday at Hampden Park. The winner of that match will have a chance to avoid relegation to League B, while the loser could face the drop.
Also read: Rúben Amorim Promises Manchester United Fans a Fearless, Attack-Minded Team
Portugal’s dominant victory over Poland saw them confirm top spot in Group A1 with 13 points, sealing their place in next year’s Nations League finals. For Croatia, the defeat leaves them in second place with seven points, but with their hopes of securing a spot in the finals now hanging by a thread.
Scotland’s focus will now shift to Monday’s must-win encounter against Poland, where a victory could see them move off the bottom of the table and secure survival in League A.