David Marshall became the national hero, when Scotland beat Serbia 2-1 after penalties in the UEFA Nation’s League final. The goalkeeper denied Aleksandar Mitrovic on penalties and provided his country place on next summer’s Euro’s.
Scotland had waited over two decades to qualify on major tournament. The country qualified last time 22 years ago to the 1998 World Cup at France.
The visitors came close to win the game on normal time, when Ryan Christie put the team on front after quiet first half. The Celtic-man picked up Allan McGregor’s pass and made a powerful finish into the bottom corner.
Unluckily visitors conceded of the last chance of the game, when Luka Jovic scored the equalizer in added time. Serbian striker’s bouncy header surprised Marshall.
After Christie’s lead goal both sides had chances to score. Sergei Milinkovic-Savic came close for equalizer 20 minutes before the full time, but midfielder headed the ball to the side-net.
Before Milinkovic-Savic’s counter-attack Scott McTominay had an opportunity to double the lead for Scotland, but Manchester United -man headed the ball wide from the corner.
Serbia was commanding the extra time, but confident Marshall kept Scotland’s goal untouched saving Nemanja Gudelj’s dangerous shot from the left post.
The penalties went on without misses until fifth round. Kenny McLean hit his shot and Marshall cancelled Mitrovic kicking of the party for the Scotts.
Scotland will be put on tough Group D. Steve Clarke’s men will face England, Croatia and Czech Republic next summer.
