Scotland kept their hopes of progressing in Euro 2024 alive with a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in Group A. Scott McTominay opened the scoring for Scotland, but Xherdan Shaqiri equalized for Switzerland.
Steve Clarke’s side now have a chance to qualify in third place with a win over Hungary in their final group stage game.
Report
Scotland kept their hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages of Euro 2024 alive with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Switzerland in Cologne on Wednesday. The Scots displayed a vastly improved performance compared to their heavy defeat in Munich five days prior.
In a game marked by intensity and drama, Scotland opened the scoring after a promising 10-minute spell. Scott McTominay’s shot, following a swift counter-attack, was deflected into the net by Fabian Schar. Initially ruled an own goal, UEFA later credited the goal to McTominay.
However, Switzerland responded with a spectacular equalizer from Xherdan Shaqiri about 13 minutes later. The winger capitalized on Scotland’s poor attempt to play out from the back, unleashing a powerful shot to level the scores.
Despite the positive result, Scotland suffered a significant setback with Kieran Tierney sustaining a hamstring injury, potentially ending his tournament. The loss of Tierney, one of Scotland’s most valuable players, is a blow to Steve Clarke’s side.
Scotland started the match energetically and appeared more organized, a stark contrast to their previous outing against Germany. Brighton’s Billy Gilmour marshaled the midfield effectively, and the team’s overall sharpness was immediately evident.
The opening goal was a testament to Scotland’s improved play. McTominay headed away a Swiss corner, and Andrew Robertson launched a counter-attack, racing down the field before passing to John McGinn. McGinn then fed McTominay, whose shot was deflected by Schar into the net.
Switzerland equalized through Shaqiri, who produced a stunning strike after Scotland’s defensive lapse. The 32-year-old winger, who had a subdued season with Chicago Fire, reminded everyone of his undeniable talent with his goal.
The match remained evenly poised, with both teams creating opportunities. Switzerland’s Breel Embolo had a potential winning goal disallowed for offside, adding to the game’s tension.
The second half was intense and chaotic, with both teams coming close to scoring multiple times. Scotland’s defense, particularly after Tierney’s injury, held firm despite Switzerland’s pressure.
Tierney’s injury occurred while attempting to stop Embolo’s disallowed goal. His absence is a significant blow to Scotland’s chances of progressing, as he has been a key player. Scott McKenna filled in admirably but will have big shoes to fill in the crucial upcoming match against Hungary in Stuttgart.
Scotland’s improved performance and the point gained keep their qualification hopes alive. A win against Hungary in their final group stage game will be crucial for securing a spot in the knockout stages.
Star Performer: Scott McTominay Crucial
Scott McTominay’s goal, his eighth in his last 14 games for the national team, was the highlight of an excellent all-round performance from the Manchester United midfielder. McTominay drove the side forward in possession, taking twice as many shots (four) as any of his teammates and ranking top for touches in the opposition box (eight).
Equally important off the ball, McTominay embraced the task of shadowing Granit Xhaka, effectively limiting the Swiss captain’s influence and executing his defensive duties diligently.
PLAYER RATINGS
Scotland: Gunn 8, Ralston 5, Hendry 6, Hanley 7, Tierney 6, Robertson 7, McGregor 6, Gilmour 7, McGinn 7, McTominay 7, Adam 6. Subs: McKenna 6, McLean 6, Shankland N/A, Christie N/A.
Switzerland: Sommer 6, Rodriguez 7, Akanji 7, Schar 5, Aebischer 6, Xhaka 6, Freuler 6, Widmer 6, Vargas 6, Ndoye 6, Shaqiri 7. Subs: Embolo 6, Rieder 6, Sierro 6.