McTominay spot on to boost Scotland's top-tier credentials

When Steve Clarke said Scotland had no interest in the soft option of the Nations League's second tier, he was not kidding.

- Ewan Murray

When Steve Clarke said Scotland had no interest in the soft option of the Nations League's second tier, he was not kidding. Scotland scrapped, scratched and clung on for dear life in the first leg of this clash with Greece. The upshot is a highly favourable position before the teams meet again on Sunday in Glasgow.

Scotland probably did not deserve this victory. The Tartan Army had to watch the second half through their fingers. Greece will complain vehemently about the circumstances attached to the only goal of the game. Still, Scotland's attitude alone meant they were deserving of good fortune. They opened 2025 in the same manner as 2024 was closed, against a team who have a formidable home record. Hampden Park and the second leg promises to be quite the spectacle.

Clarke had resisted strong temptation to deploy fit-again Kieran Tierney from the start. Scotland's manager determined recent success with four at the back mattered more than finding a role for the Arsenal player. With Tierney and Andy Robertson both involved, Scotland have typically reverted to a five-man backline. Clarke's key switch involved the introduction of Lewis Ferguson, outstanding upon return from injury at Bologna, to his midfield.