One week before their pivotal Euro 2024 match against Germany, Scotland relinquished a two-goal advantage in a friendly skirmish with Finland.
The scoring deadlock at Hampden Park was broken in the latter’s 54th minute courtesy of Andy Robertson. Notably captaining his team for the 49th time, Robertson delivered a search ball turned goalward by Finland’s unwitting Arttu Hoskonen.
Having etched his name in the records beyond George Young’s 67 years, Robertson continued to orchestrate play. Merely four minutes post the first goal, he chanced upon Anthony Ralston’s deflected attempt and adeptly set up Lawrence Shankland, who headed it past an outstretched Viljami Sinsalo.
Scottish Coach then swapped Angus Gunn with Craig Gordon, now the oldest to represent the Tartan Army at 41 years and 159 days. This switch, however, didn’t pan out as hoped.
Just three minutes later, Finnish substitutes Oliver Antman and Benjamin Kallman teamed up to find the net, introducing new tension into the match. The equalizer came after Gordon fouled Tomas Galvez, gifting Finland a penalty which Antman dispatched effortlessly.Data Debrief: Scotland’s Unsatisfying Draw
Scotland’s undefeated streak against Finland remains unbroken after nine encounters, comprising six victories and three ties. Their only more frequent unbeaten opponent is the Faroe Islands, against whom they’ve sustained 11 matches without defeat.
Yet, the frustration was palpable for Steve Clarke as Scotland’s defense faltered towards the match’s conclusion. With Germany looming, such benevolence at the back could lead to more severe repercussions.
