In a gritty and determined performance, Scotland secured a valuable point against Switzerland, keeping their Euro 2024 campaign alive.
The 1-1 draw at the raucous Cologne Stadium saw Scotland overcome injuries and self-inflicted errors to stay in the hunt for qualification from Group A.
Scotland’s qualification hero, Scott McTominay, gave the Tartan Army an early lead with a deflected shot that almost lifted the roof off the stadium in the 13th minute.
However, a moment of defensive calamity allowed Switzerland to equalize. A misjudged back pass from Anthony Ralston was pounced upon by Xherdan Shaqiri, who dispatched a sublime first-time shot high beyond Angus Gunn.
The match took a further toll on Scotland’s squad when Kieran Tierney, clutching his hamstring, had to be substituted after Dan Ndoye squandered a golden chance when through on goal. Tierney’s injury means he will miss the crucial game against Hungary on Sunday, adding to Scotland’s defensive woes.
Despite these setbacks, the Scots rallied heroically in the closing stages. Grant Hanley came agonizingly close to securing all three points when his header from an Andy Robertson free-kick struck the post.
The Swiss had several late opportunities to snatch a win, but Scotland’s resolute defense held firm.
The draw moves Scotland to third in Group A, setting up a potentially historic encounter with Hungary. A victory on Sunday would likely see Scotland progress beyond the group stage for the first time in their history.
The atmosphere in Cologne was electric, with tens of thousands of Scotland supporters filling the city and the stadium, creating a sea of tartan and fervent support.
This passionate backing was in stark contrast to Scotland’s previous outing, a 5-1 defeat to hosts Germany, where the team looked a shadow of the side that had previously stunned Norway and beaten Spain in qualifying.
Against Switzerland, Scotland showed the guile and determination that had deserted them in Munich. The opener was classic Scotland, reminiscent of their qualification run. A McTominay header cleared a Swiss corner, leading to an Andy Robertson charge down the field. Callum McGregor’s pass found McTominay, whose first-time shot deflected off Fabian Schar and rocketed into the net.
Despite some nervy moments in defense during the first half, Scotland managed to contain the Swiss. The second half saw a transformed Scotland side attacking with fervor and without fear, a performance that earned them a deserved point.
For manager Steve Clarke and the throngs of Scotland fans who traveled from the city center, the team’s resilience and fighting spirit were all they could have asked for. With their Euro 2024 hopes still very much alive, all eyes now turn to the decisive match against Hungary.
This result not only keeps Scotland in contention but also serves as a testament to their ability to overcome adversity and compete at the highest level.