The Tartan Army watched Scotland fight hard to beat Haiti, a team ranked 83rd in the FIFA rankings, as Steve Clarke’s side earned their first World Cup finals win since 1990.
John McGinn scored the winning goal in the 28th minute in Boston. Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide blocked Che Adams’ shot after a dangerous cross from Ben Gannon-Doak, but McGinn’s deflected effort found the back of the net.
Scotland will return to Boston to face Morocco on Friday, while Haiti will take on five-time world champions Brazil in Philadelphia.
The win moved Scotland to the top of Group C, above Brazil and Morocco, who drew 1-1 earlier in the day.
Only time will tell how important this result will be, but Scotland showed plenty of determination to earn the three points they wanted.
Scotland Player Ratings
Angus Gunn – 6
Chosen ahead of Craig Gordon and handled most situations well.
His only difficult moment came in the first half when he spilled a shot from Ruben Providence, but the danger was cleared before Frantzdy Pierrot could score.
Aaron Hickey – 6
Worked hard against Haiti’s counter-attacks during a difficult evening and was booked early in the second half for a late challenge on Providence.
Grant Hanley – 7
Delivered an excellent performance in defence and dealt well with Haiti’s physical attack.
His only notable mistake came late in the game when Frantzdy Pierrot headed just wide.
Jack Hendry – 7
Like Hanley, he dealt well with crosses into the box.
He also used his pace to stop several dangerous Haiti counter-attacks.
Andy Robertson – 7
The captain delivered several excellent crosses and looked strong going forward.
He showed the attacking quality that has made him one of Scotland’s key players.
Ben Gannon-Doak – 7
His pace caused Haiti many problems.
He helped create Scotland’s goal and also set up Scott McTominay for a shot that hit the post in the first half.
Scott McTominay – 6
Unlucky to hit the post with a first-half effort but struggled to have his usual influence on the game.
His recent illness may have affected his performance.
Lewis Ferguson – 6
Worked hard in midfield but found it a tough and physical contest.
John McGinn – 7
The Aston Villa captain may have played better matches, but his goal was the most important moment of the game.
His strike gave Scotland the win and made him the first player to score a World Cup winning goal for Scotland since Mo Johnston against Sweden in 1990.
Lawrence Shankland – 6
Worked hard throughout but found it difficult to break down Haiti’s defence.
His effort and energy could not be questioned.
Che Adams – 6
Moved well and showed good skill during the first half.
He thought he had scored before McGinn’s goal but faded as the game went on.
Substitutes
Lyndon Dykes – 5
Came on in the 75th minute for Adams and spent much of his time helping in defence.
Ryan Christie – 5
Replaced Gannon-Doak late in the match but was unable to make a major impact.
Kenny McLean – 5
Came on for Shankland in the 83rd minute and was booked for a late high challenge on Josue Casimir.
Nathan Patterson – 6
Replaced Hickey in the 75th minute and helped Scotland hold on for the win with a solid performance.
Findlay Curtis – 5
The young Rangers winger worked hard but struggled with his final pass.
He was also booked for a late challenge on Casimir near the end of the match.
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