Scotland began their preparations for this summer’s World Cup with a disappointing 1-0 friendly defeat by Japan at Hampden on Saturday night.
On a night of few chances for the home side, it was Japan who took the victory when substitute Junya Ito netted past Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn in the 84th minute of the game.
Scott McTominay came closest to scoring for Scotland when he connected to John McGinn’s cross after just eight minutes, but his shot was somehow pushed onto the post by Zion Suzuki in the visitors' net. Japan also hit the post via Ao Tanaka, his shot pinging off the crossbar after some neat interplay by Kodai Sano in the first-half. However, just as the game looked set to end in a stalemate, it was Japan who took the victory with a late strike.
Steve Clarke’s side return to action this Tuesday when they take on Ivory Coast at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 7.30pm.
1. Angus Gunn - 6
As expected, he was given the nod in goal with Craig Gordon out injured. Dealt with what was thrown at him quite comfortably, and made a strong save from Yuito Suzuki just before the break. Little he could do about the goal. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
2. Nathan Patterson - 5
Made his first start for Scotland in two years and kept Daizen Maeda quiet. Had one hairy moment early on when he slipped. Played a little too safe going forward, with the crowd often urging him to drive at the Japan defence. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
3. Jack Hendry - 5
Passed well out from the back, and coped well enough with Japan's attacking threat. Solid enough, if unspectacular. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
4. Scott McKenna - 5
Won 100% of his aerial duels in a first-half of few chances. Almost gifted Goto a goal with a loose pass on the edge of the area, though. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group