Scotland win over Croatia
Tartan Army victorious in Nations League opener
Lyndon Dykes' goal lifts Scotland to victory
Scotland began their UEFA Nations League campaign with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Croatia at Hampden Park on Wednesday evening. Lyndon Dykes' first-half strike proved to be the difference between the two sides, as Steve Clarke's men held on to secure all three points in their opening match of Group B4.
The victory was Scotland's first competitive win since beating Serbia 1-0 in October 2020, and it will give Clarke and his players a much-needed boost ahead of their upcoming matches against the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
Scotland made a bright start to the match and took the lead in the 11th minute. Ryan Christie's corner found Dykes at the near post, and the Queens Park Rangers striker made no mistake with a powerful header.
Croatia responded well to going behind, and they had several chances to equalize before half-time. However, Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon was in inspired form, making a number of fine saves to keep his side ahead.
Scotland doubled their lead in the 34th minute when Kieran Tierney's cross was met by John McGinn at the back post. McGinn's header was saved by Dominik Livakovic, but the ball fell kindly to Dykes, who slotted home from close range.
Croatia pulled a goal back in the 56th minute through Luka Modric. The Real Madrid midfielder curled a free-kick into the top corner of the net, giving Gordon no chance.
However, Scotland restored their two-goal advantage just three minutes later. Che Adams was brought down in the penalty area by Josko Gvardiol, and Christie made no mistake from the spot.
Scotland saw out the remaining minutes of the match to secure a deserved victory. The win will give Clarke's men confidence heading into their next match against the Czech Republic on Saturday.
Key stats
- Scotland had 53% of the possession.
- Scotland had 12 shots on goal, with 6 on target.
- Croatia had 9 shots on goal, with 3 on target.
- Craig Gordon made 5 saves.
- Dominik Livakovic made 3 saves.
