Scotland heartbreak as Clarke’s side dumped from Euro 2020 after Croatia defeat

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Scotland have had their Euro 2020 dreams shattered after failing to beat Croatia in their final match of Group D.

Following a defeat to Czech Republic and a draw with England, Steve Clarke's side needed to pick up all three points in their final match of the group stage to secure their place in the last 16.

But a 3-1 defeat at Hampden Park ended their hopes of qualifying for the round of 16 and they exit the competition.

They fell behind early on through a Nikola Vlasic goal in the 17th-minute but bounced back to find the equaliser just before half-time.

An Andy Robertson cross caused mayhem in the Croatia box and when the ball fell to McGregor on the edge of the area, the Celtic man made no mistake and buried the ball into the bottom left corner.

Scotland pushed to find the goal that would take them through, but their efforts were to no avail and they conceded two in the second-half; first a stunning strike from Luka Modric followed by a glancing header from Ivan Perisic.

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It means Steve Clarke's side exit the Euro 2020 finals at the earliest possible stage. They finish bottom of the group with a sole point.

But despite a disappointing night in Glasgow, Scotland have put in some spirited displays.

They were unfortunate to not convert any of their shots on goal against Czech Republic in their opening group game and were undone by a piece of brilliance from Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick.

They then held England to an impressive 0-0 draw at Wembley, creating the better chances with Reece James heading a Lyndon Dykes effort off the line.

Tuesday night's game against Czech Republic was also played without star man Billy Gilmour, who tested positive for coronavirus in the aftermath of the England game.

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Steve Clarke threw down the gauntlet to his side and urged them to qualify for Gilmour and build on their positive display against the Three Lions.

But it was one step too far for Scotland who exit at group stage, losing both games at Hampden Park.

  • Euro 2020

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