It’s advantage Scotland in the Nations League play-off with Greece after a resolute display from Steve Clarke’s men saw them run out narrow 1-0 winners at the Karaiskakis Stadium in Piraeus.
Settled by a controversial 33rd minute penalty from Scott McTominay, Scotland were to forced fight for the win after being camped in their own half for the majority of the second period, though Craig Gordon’s goal was not breached as the Tartan Army celebrated another memorable victory in the competition.
With Ben Doak and Lyndon Dykes both injured, head coach Clarke made two changes from the 2-1 win over Poland in November, with Che Adams and Lewis Ferguson returning to the starting XI, the latter playing for Scotland for the first time in over a year due to injury.
Largely the better side in the first 45, heavy Greek pressure in the second-half saw Christos Tzolis cannon an attempt off the post, before they were awarded a penalty with 85 minutes on the clock, only for the referee to alter his decision after VAR ruled Grant Hanley’s foul took place outside of the box.
The sides will meet again at Hampden Park on Sunday, with kick off scheduled for 5pm.
5. Andy Robertson - 7/10
Dangerous early cross almost created an own goal. Added to Scotland's attack throughout, while remaining strong in defence. | AP Photo: AP
6. Billy Gilmour - 7/10
Made 89% of his passes accurately, and used the ball well. Did well in transition, but should have doubled the lead just before the break when he fluffed his lines at the crucial moment. Another mature performance. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
7. Kenny McLean - 6/10
Lost the ball cheaply early on, but recovered well and picked up plenty of second balls to help aid Scotland in transition alongside Gilmour during that impressive first 45 minutes. Found things a little more difficult in the second-half though, and was taken off with 15 minutes to go. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
8. Scott McTominay - 9/10
Continues to show up on the big stage for the national team. Almost opened the scoring during a goal mouth scramble, before he won the penalty that handed them a deserved lead - and he converted it with aplomb. Continues to be Scotland's powerhouse. Outstanding yet again. | AP Photo: AP