Scotland's final preparations for Euro 2024 hit an unexpected stumbling block as a much-changed side laboured to a goalless draw against a resilient Belarus in a closed-door friendly.
The match, played behind closed doors at a neutral venue, offered Steve Clarke a final chance to experiment before the tournament's curtain-raiser against Germany. However, his experimental lineup, featuring the likes of Billy Gilmour and Che Adams, struggled to break down a disciplined Belarusian defence.
Missed Opportunities and a Lack of Cutting Edge
The Scots dominated possession for large periods but found clear-cut chances hard to come by. The absence of key attacking threats was palpable, with the team lacking its usual fluidity and penetration in the final third. Several half-chances came and went, but a clinical finish remained elusive throughout the 90 minutes.
This performance will give manager Steve Clarke plenty to ponder before the squad travels to Germany. While the result is ultimately inconsequential, the manner of the performance has raised questions about the squad's depth and attacking options beyond the first-choice eleven.
Final Preparations Before Germany Clash
All eyes now turn to the Allianz Arena in Munich, where Scotland will kick off the European Championship against the host nation on Friday, 14th June. The team will be hoping to put this underwhelming friendly display behind them and recapture the form that saw them qualify so impressively.
The nation will be rallying behind Clarke and his men, hoping for a historic start to their campaign in one of world football's most iconic stadiums.
