Nations League: Poland punished Scottish errors

Scotland 2 - 3 Poland

Scotland's tough 2024 continued in heartbreaking fashion as Poland were awarded a stoppage-time penalty, crushing a spirited Nations League comeback at Hampden.

Billy Gilmour and Scott McTominay scored second-half goals to revive Scotland after Sebastian Szymanski's long-range strike and Robert Lewandowski's expertly-taken penalty put the visitors ahead.

However, as Steve Clarke's men pushed for a late winner, Nicola Zalewski was brought down by a reckless challenge from Grant Hanley. Zalewski, who had also won the earlier penalty, stepped up to slot home the decisive goal in the 97th minute.

Scotland, who made a tame exit from this summer's Euros with just one point from three group games, now face a daunting trip to Portugal on Sunday. They have managed only one win in 13 matches in 2024, suffering five defeats.

The manner in which this game ended was hard to believe, especially given Scotland’s poor first-half performance. 

Clarke's side played with much more purpose than they had in Germany at Euro 2024 but conceded two soft goals. The Polish players clearly confidence from this and from the boisterous backing from the travelling fans. 

First, Scott McKenna failed to close down Szymanski quickly enough, allowing him to line up a 30-yard shot that bounced off the post and past Angus Gunn.

Scotland's defence looked shaky again when Zalewski drove into the box and was brought down by a clumsy challenge from Anthony Ralston.

Veteran striker Lewandowski confidently converted the penalty, sending Gunn the wrong way.

Between these goals, Andy Robertson's free-kick found McTominay, who bundled the ball into the net. However, VAR ruled that the Napoli midfielder had handled the ball. Shortly after, Ryan Christie's cross from the left found Lyndon Dykes, but his shot hit the side netting when aiming across goal might have been more effective.

Scotland needed an early response in the second half, and they got it. John McGinn forced the ball into a dangerous area, and Christie set up Gilmour to score.

That goal reignited the home crowd, but hearts were in mouths when Szymanski's long-range effort narrowly missed the target.

McTominay remained Scotland's biggest threat, timing his run perfectly to tap in Ben Doak's low cross. Doak, an 18-year-old making his debut alongside Ryan Gauld, had made an immediate impact.

Buoyed by the Hampden crowd, Clarke's men looked the more likely side to find a winner. However, McGinn lost possession in his own half, leading to Zalewski's run into the box. Hanley mistimed his challenge, fouling Zalewski near the byline.

Gunn guessed correctly but couldn't keep out the Pole's penalty, condemning Scotland to yet another defeat.