By T. Jayani, JadeTimes News
Despite facing injuries and past struggles, Scotland managed to secure a valuable point against Switzerland, keeping their Euro 2024 campaign alive. Hero of the qualifiers, Scott McTominay, ignited the crowd at Cologne Stadium with a deflected shot that found the net 13 minutes into the match. However, Anthony Ralston's errant back pass gifted Xherdan Shaqiri the chance to equalize with a stunning first time shot past goalkeeper Angus Gunn.
Kieran Tierney later left the field clutching his hamstring as Dan Ndoye missed a key opportunity for Switzerland. Tierney will miss the upcoming match against Hungary due to his injury. Despite already being stretched thin in defense, Scotland fought valiantly in the latter stages. Grant Hanley nearly secured a win with a header that struck the post following an Andy Robertson free kick.
While Switzerland missed several late chances, they couldn't prevent Scotland from earning a point, moving them to third in Group A. A victory against Hungary could see Scotland progress beyond the group stage for the first time in their history.
Scotland's Determination Offers Hope
In Cologne, Scottish supporters gathered in large numbers to watch their team face a formidable challenge. Following a disappointing 5-1 defeat by Germany, Scotland showed renewed spirit against a Swiss team that had dominated Hungary in their previous match.
The opening goal was classic Scotland, with McTominay heading clear from a corner and Robertson launching a full pitch counterattack. When Callum McGregor passed to McTominay, his shot deflected off Fabian Schar into the net.
Despite nervous moments in defense, Scotland attacked with vigor in the second half, giving themselves a fighting chance. This resurgence was a stark contrast to their earlier form and was a testament to their resolve.
Switzerland's Missed Opportunities
Switzerland had impressed in their victory over Hungary but faced a tougher challenge against Scotland. Shaqiri’s exceptional strike brought them level, but they failed to capitalize on several clear chances, including two disallowed goals for offside.
The Swiss defense showed vulnerability in the second half, allowing Scotland to press forward. Switzerland will view this draw as a missed opportunity, especially with a challenging match against Germany on the horizon. However, their four points might still suffice for progression.
Reactions and Insights
Scotland head coach Steve Clarke praised his team's performance, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming match against Hungary. Captain Andy Robertson and midfielder Billy Gilmour echoed these sentiments, highlighting their aggressive and passionate play.
Key Match Statistics
This match marked the first time Scotland earned points in a Euros game after conceding, breaking their previous six game losing streak in such situations.
Scotland remains unbeaten against Switzerland in major tournaments, with a record of one win and one draw.
Scott McTominay has scored nine goals for Scotland under Clarke, with only John McGinn scoring more (18). McTominay’s eight goals since March 2023 are more than twice as many as any other Scottish player.
Switzerland has lost only one of their last 12 Euros matches, maintaining a strong record in recent tournaments.
Xherdan Shaqiri continues to be a standout, scoring in each of the last six major tournaments since the 2014 World Cup.
Switzerland fielded their oldest starting XI in a Euros game, averaging 30 years and 119 days, surpassed only by Slovakia’s lineup in this tournament.
This draw against Switzerland has revitalized Scotland's Euro 2024 prospects, setting the stage for a decisive match against Hungary.