Scotland secured a vital World Cup qualifying win over Belarus, but the 2-1 victory at Hampden Park was met with jeers from the home crowd and fierce criticism from manager Steve Clarke. Goals from Che Adams and Scott McTominay were enough to seal the points, but the performance was described as 'head-scratching' by a clearly furious Clarke.
Belarus, ranked 100th in the world and thrashed 6-0 by Denmark days earlier, dominated large spells and had 22 shots on goal. They were denied a second-half equaliser by a controversial VAR decision, with the visitors' coach Carlos Alós insisting they 'deserved to at least draw'. Scotland were unconvincing in defence, lacking authority in midfield and woefully ponderous in attack.
Adams opened the scoring in the first half after a VAR review overturned an offside call, but Clarke remained agitated throughout. McTominay's second goal, scored after a defensive error, was met with muted celebrations. The midfielder admitted the team must improve, saying 'we know we have got to be better'.
Despite the poor display, Denmark's win over Greece means Scotland have secured at least a World Cup playoff berth. Clarke expressed faith in his squad, saying 'I am very confident they will be in a much better place next month'. However, questions remain over their ability to compete at the highest level.
