McGINN STRIKE LIFTS SCOTLAND PAST HAITI IN WORLD CUP RETURN.

Scotland began their first FIFA World Cup appearance of the 21 st century with a
hard-fought 1-0 victory over Haiti in Massachusetts, thanks to a first-half goal from
John McGinn.

Steve Clarke’s side started brightly, with Ben Gannon-Doak forcing an early save
before Scott McTominay struck the post as Scotland pushed for an opener.

Haiti had its moments during a lively opening spell, but Scotland struck just before
the half-hour mark when McGinn reacted quickest in the box to a blocked Che
Adams’ effort and saw his deflected shot find the net.

“It was a scrappy one, but we’ll take it,” McGinn said after the match. “At a World
Cup, it’s about results first.”

Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn also played his part, keeping out Ruben
Providence’s powerful strike as the Caribbean side threatened an equaliser before
the break.

After the restart, Lawrence Shankland and Gannon-Doak both came close to
extending the lead, while McGinn wasted a good chance to grab a second goal late
on.

Haiti continued to press, with Providence and Wilson Isidor both going close, but
Scotland held firm to secure their first World Cup win since 1990.

“It was a tough match, very physical,” Clarke said. “But we showed discipline, and
that is what matters at this level.”

Scotland will now prepare to face Morocco in their next Group C fixture, while Haiti
look to recover against Brazil.