Scotland Off to Winning Start in Euro 2024 Qualifiers with Dominant Performance Against Cyprus
Scotland kicked off their Euo 2024 qualifying campaign with a well-deserved 3-0 victory against Cyprus at Hampden Park. The visitors, ranked as the lowest team in the group, found it difficult to match up against Steve Clarke’s side, who dominated possession with 62% of it. The game was won through the efforts of Scotland’s substitutes, with Ryan Christie and Scott McTominay contributing to the victory with their late goals.
John McGinn’s opening goal set the tone for the home side, and the superior strength of Scotland’s players showed as the likes of McGinn, Armstrong, and Tierney marauded in support of Ché Adams. While Liam Kelly and Zander Clark, the uncapped goalkeepers, were not trusted enough to play, Angus Gunn showed his ability to transfer his good form from Norwich to the national stage.
Clarke’s decision to revert to a three allowed the Premier League pair’s attacking thrust to be used to great effect. However, it was Aaron Hickey, deployed on the other flank, who fashioned the team’s first shot on target. The goal, a classic display of the team’s strengths, saw Armstrong drive forward and clip a pass with the outside of his boot for the overlapping Robertson.
A VAR check dampened the celebrations somewhat, but Scotland’s dominance on the night was clear for all to see. Ryan Christie and McTominay’s fresh legs made all the difference, and their combined efforts settled the outcome in Scotland’s favor. Although a tougher test against Spain awaits, Clarke’s side will be buoyed by this impressive display.
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