Scotland's Euro 2024 dreams were shattered in the most agonising fashion on Sunday night, as a controversial 100th-minute penalty decision handed Hungary a 1-0 victory, sending Steve Clarke's side crashing out of the tournament.
An incensed Clarke did not hold back in his post-match assessment, branding the officiating "embarrassing" and questioning the integrity of the crucial call made by Argentine referee Facundo Tello. The decision came after a coming together between substitute Stuart Armstrong and Hungarian defender Willi Orbán inside the box.
"It was 100 per cent not a penalty," Clarke stated emphatically. "The referee is surrounded by Hungarian players. It's embarrassing. I don't understand how a referee can be so weak. It was a fair challenge. I've got no idea how he can see that as a penalty."
The late heartbreak in Stuttgart means Scotland finish bottom of Group A with a single point, extending their wait for a first-ever knockout stage victory at a major tournament.
Captain's Agony and a Nation's Despair
Skipper Andy Robertson echoed his manager's devastation, describing the loss as the "lowest point" of his international career. The Liverpool left-back was a picture of despair at the final whistle, a moment that encapsulated the feelings of a nation.
"It's a penalty that's given in the last minute of the game. It's difficult to take. It's going to take a long, long time to get over this one," a dejected Robertson confessed.
The match itself was a tense, scrappy affair with few clear-cut chances for either side. Scotland's best opportunity fell to Che Adams in the first half, but his effort was well saved. The game seemed destined for a draw that would have kept Scottish hopes alive until the final dramatic intervention from the officials.
Questions Over UEFA Appointments
Clarke also took aim at UEFA's appointment of a South American officiating team for such a pivotal European fixture. "Why is there not a European referee? We have European referees. I don't understand why he's here. He probably doesn't understand our mentality."
The result sends Hungary through to the last 16 as one of the best third-placed teams, while Scotland are left to rue what might have been and dissect a controversial end to their campaign.
