Scotland maintain a precious 1-0 lead against Greece in Nations League play-off. This hard-fought victory happened deep in the dramatic first stage of the match. The win marked Scotland as only the third team in four years to defeat Greece on their home soil, joining the ranks of England and the Netherlands. Scott McTominay scored the winner, converting a penalty kick. This win guaranteed Scotland’s first victory in Greece in four decades. The eventual play-off winner will claim a prized place in Nations League A for the 2026/27 campaign.
Head Coach Steve Clarke is optimistic that maintaining top-tier status in the Nations League will bolster Scotland's chances in the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Clarke stressed the strategic importance of this victory, as he hopes it will give his small, outgunned operation a big advantage.
"Obviously, we've got the one-goal lead from the first leg, but we're going to set up and try and win the game. Hopefully set a marker down for the World Cup (qualifying) games coming up."
The second leg of the tie returns to Hampden Park on Sunday. That could be key as Clarke hopes to replicate the tenacious second half display that saw them bounce back to draw the first leg. Clarke is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that his current group are ready for a strong test from the Greek outfit.
"I can imagine they'll try to replicate what they did in the second half out there and put us under a bit of pressure."
The game will be important for a few Scots themselves who are set to hit milestone caps. Scott McTominay on the verge of 60th cap. If chosen, John McGinn would win his 75th cap and Kenny McLean his 50th. Clarke played up the value of veteran players leading his youth-laden side.
"That was one of the things that I set out quite early in my reign as head coach, to get a core group of players who would be capped."
All the while, Clarke has faith that his players have matured at this level and that they’re ready for the challenge.
"I think as individual players we've improved at this level. We understand what it takes to win a game at this level."
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