´No way´ Scotland have seen off wasteful Greece after first-leg victory

Steve Clarke knows Scotland’s Nations League play-off tie against Greece is “not dead” after scraping to a 1-0 victory in Piraeus.

Scotland’s hopes of retaining their League A status were boosted by a first-half Scott McTominay penalty that proved to be the only goal of the game.

But the visitors had to ride their luck after the break as Greece passed up chance after chance.

The home side finished with 24 shots worth a combined 2.84 expected goals (xG), yet remarkably drew only a single save from 42-year-old goalkeeper Craig Gordon.

Not since France had 26 attempts in 2007 had Scotland faced more shots without conceding.

If Greece can find some form in front of goal in time for the trip to Hampden Park, Scotland may yet have their work cut out.

“This game is not dead yet,” boss Clarke told BBC Scotland. “No way.”

Scotland away olé, olé

Your support was incredible in Piraeus tonight.

Enjoy your night and a wishing you all a safe trip home – see you on Sunday.#GRESCO | #UNL pic.twitter.com/1ndFWmlMHz

— Scotland National Team (@ScotlandNT) March 20, 2025

However, Clarke felt his side could themselves have been out of sight before half-time, having been enthused by their performance.

“We knew it would be a tough game,” he said. “First half we were really good; we could’ve been two in front. If I’m being greedy, I could say three.

“We knew Greece would come at us second half. We didn’t quite manage to regain our rhythm, so we had to show a different side to our game.

“The game changed with the start Greece made to the second half. We didn’t progress up the pitch enough. That’s something we have to do a little bit better.”