A night that began with such promise at a rain-swept Hampden Park ended in crushing disappointment for Scotland as they conceded a gut-wrenching 93rd-minute equaliser to Greece, severely denting their 2026 World Cup qualification hopes.
McGinn's Magic Moment
The Tartan Army thought they had witnessed a moment of pure inspiration when captain John McGinn broke the deadlock in spectacular fashion. The Aston Villa midfielder produced a moment of sheer brilliance, executing a stunning overhead kick that sent the home crowd into raptures. For 85 minutes, that moment looked like being the match-winner.
Greek Tragedy Unfolds
Just as Scotland seemed destined to secure three precious points, disaster struck in the third minute of stoppage time. Greek substitute Taxiarchis Foundas became the villain for the home supporters, tapping home from close range after a defensive scramble to silence Hampden Park.
Qualification Picture Clouds
This dramatic late collapse leaves Scotland's World Cup qualification hopes in serious jeopardy. Steve Clarke's men now face an uphill battle to secure automatic qualification from Group C, with every point becoming increasingly precious in the campaign.
The Scottish players slumped to the turf at full-time, the magnitude of the late concession clearly visible on their faces. Meanwhile, the Greek celebrations told their own story - this felt like a victory snatched from the jaws of defeat for the visitors.
What Next for Scotland?
Steve Clarke now faces the difficult task of lifting his devastated squad for the remaining qualifiers. The manner of this defeat - conceding so late after working so hard for the victory - will be particularly difficult to digest for players and fans alike.
As the Tartan Army filed out of Hampden into the Glasgow night, the familiar feeling of what might have been hung heavy in the air. Scotland's World Cup dream remains alive, but it's now hanging by the thinnest of threads.
