Scotland earned their first point in the Nations League after a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Portugal at Hampden Park. The result marked a significant improvement for Steve Clarke’s side, who had been struggling to find form in their previous matches.
Cristiano Ronaldo, making his first appearance at Hampden, was greeted with a chorus of boos from the Tartan Army. However, the 39-year-old Al Nassr forward failed to make an impact, storming down the tunnel at full-time as Scotland secured a crucial point.
The hosts started brightly, with Scott McTominay missing an early chance from Andy Robertson’s cross. Portugal gradually gained control, but Scotland’s defense held firm, with Craig Gordon producing several key saves.
Ronaldo attempted an audacious bicycle kick, which sailed past the post, and later sent a curling shot well over the bar. Portugal dominated possession, but Scotland’s determination and defensive structure denied them a breakthrough.
Scotland had chances of their own, with Ryan Christie and Che Adams coming close. However, it was Portugal who pushed hardest for a winner, with Bruno Fernandes hitting the post from a corner kick.
In the dying moments, Nicky Devlin, making his Scotland debut from the bench, produced a brilliant block to deny Rafael Leao’s powerful shot. The result ensured Scotland avoided a fourth consecutive defeat in Group A1.
Post-Match Reaction
Scotland manager Steve Clarke praised his team’s defensive efforts: “Everybody contributed to earn the point. We were defensively sound, and the shape of the team was good. We denied a lot of space in behind, and our concentration in the box was excellent.”
Former Scotland goalkeeper David Marshall hailed the result as “a step in the right direction” for Clarke’s side. “It was a night to compliment Scotland in their defensive work as a team… Everybody worked so hard, and they would be disappointed in terms of creating chances.”
What’s Next?
Scotland host Croatia at Hampden Park on Friday, November 15, as their Nations League campaign continues.
Match Stats
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Scotland: Craig Gordon (GK), Anthony Ralston, Grant Hanley, Kieran Tierney, Andy Robertson, Scott McTominay, Billy Gilmour, Ryan Christie, Che Adams, Ben Doak
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Portugal: Diogo Costa (GK), Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Antonio Silva, Nuno Mendes, Bruno Fernandes, Joao Palhinha, Francisco Conceicao, Diogo Jota, Cristiano Ronaldo, Rafael Leao
Standings
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Group A1: Croatia (9 points), Portugal (7 points), Scotland (1 point), Netherlands (1 point)