Scotland, cheered on by their passionate Tartan Army of traveling supporters, celebrated their first World Cup victory in 36 years on Saturday, edging past Haiti 1-0 thanks to a first-half strike from John McGinn.
Match Overview
The Scots, needing three points against a team considered one of the tournament's minnows before facing tougher opponents Brazil and Morocco in Group C, took the lead in the 28th minute. A close-range effort from Che Adams was saved by Johny Placide, but the ball fell to McGinn, whose shot deflected over the Haiti goalkeeper and into the net.
Eleven minutes earlier, Scott McTominay had hit the post with a powerful shot. Although Haiti showed flashes of their electric pace and pressured Scotland late in the game, Scottish goalkeeper Angus Gunn had few saves to make.
Group Standings
The win puts Steve Clarke's men top of Group C ahead of five-time world champions Brazil and 2022 semifinalists Morocco, who drew 1-1 earlier on Saturday. Under FIFA's expanded tournament format, three points and a decent goal difference could offer a strong chance of advancing to the knockout stage, something that has eluded Scotland in all of their previous eight World Cups.
Fan Atmosphere
Scottish supporters made the most of their return to the global stage after a 28-year absence, delivering a rousing rendition of The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond before kickoff, as well as their familiar tribute song for McGinn. He repaid the compliment with his goal, less than a month after lifting the Europa League trophy as captain of England's Aston Villa. Winger Ben Doak also threatened with his pace.
Haiti's Efforts
Haiti, playing at their first World Cup since 1974, were bolstered by two players with English Premier League experience: Jean-Ricner Bellegarde of Wolverhampton Wanderers and Sunderland's Wilson Isidor. However, they had only a few chances to equalize. In the 38th minute, the ball fell to Ruben Providence a few yards out, but he was dispossessed by Aaron Hickey. Frantzdy Pierrot headed narrowly wide in the 85th minute and had another chance in the dying minutes, but Scotland held on for the win.
Historical Context
Scotland's last World Cup win was a 2-1 defeat of Sweden in 1990. They next face Morocco in Boston, while Haiti takes on Brazil in Philadelphia, with both games on Friday.
