Scotland end 2025 with win but night soured by star player being stretchered off

Kirsty Hanson was also on target in a blistering opening 15-minute spell before Howat spurned the chance to complete a hat-trick from the penalty spot.

China then responded with goals from Zhang Linyan and Wu Chengshu but Scotland held on, although the game ended on a sour note as one of Scotland’s key players Erin Cuthbert was carried off on a stretcher.

"We started fast and maximised the chances we created, then the momentum sort of swung towards China,” said head coach Melissa Andreatta afterwards.

"But I think we regrouped towards the latter stages of the half and talked about a few things at half-time. We started the second half strongly, had a penalty and poor Kirsty [Howat] going for a third missed it.

"If we get that the pressure sort of releases a little bit, but then they go and score. That makes it super interesting, which is Scottish apparently.

"What we did was show really good character. The way we defended was excellent to deny them chances from all those crosses. Looking ahead, that's what you're going to need in tight games and tournament football."

China respond to England defeat

China were thrashed 8-0 by England last week and appeared destined for another heavy loss as Scotland raced ahead with a fine 11th-minute finish from Howat and two more goals in quick succession.

Hanson doubled the lead after a neat turn in the 14th minute and Crystal Palace forward Howat struck again moments later with a stunning effort from 40 yards after Chen Qiaozhu gave the ball away.

China pulled one back on the half-hour mark as Wu Chengsu collected a cross from the right with her back to goal and turned to tee up Zhang.

Scotland could have put the result beyond doubt early in the second half after Cuthbert skipped into the box and was felled by Wu Haiyan. Howat took the resulting penalty but hit a post and then lifted the rebound over the crossbar.

China reduced the arrears again after the hour when Zhang crossed for Wu Chengsu to head in and Huo Yuexin shot narrowly wide when well placed shortly afterwards.

Scotland avoided any further scares but the game was held up late on after Chelsea’s Cuthbert required lengthy treatment and was eventually carried off.