Scotland beat Haiti to claim first World Cup win since 1990

BOSTON: Scotland secured their first World Cup victory in 36 years on Saturday, edging Haiti 1-0 in Group C through a first-half goal from John McGinn.

Steve Clarke's side needed a win against Haiti before facing tougher group opponents Morocco and Brazil, and they went ahead in the 28th minute. Che Adams saw a close-range attempt saved by Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide, but the rebound fell to McGinn, whose shot took a deflection and looped over the goalkeeper into the net.

Scotland had already gone close in the 17th minute when Scott McTominay struck the post. They created further danger through winger Ben Gannon-Doak, while a large travelling support made itself heard before kickoff and throughout the match.

Haiti, appearing at their first World Cup since 1974, included two players with English Premier League experience in Jean-Ricner Bellegarde of Wolverhampton Wanderers and Sunderland's Wilson Isidor. Despite showing pace in attacking moments and increasing the pressure late in the game, they created only a handful of clear openings.

In the 38th minute, Ruben Providence found himself close to goal but was dispossessed by Aaron Hickey. Frantzdy Pierrot then headed narrowly wide in the 85th minute and had another opening in the closing stages, but Scotland held on. Goalkeeper Angus Gunn was otherwise largely untroubled and had little save-making work to do.

The result moved Scotland to the top of Group C after Brazil and Morocco, the other two teams in the section, drew 1-1 earlier on Saturday. Under FIFA's expanded format, three points and a healthy goal difference at the end of the group stage could offer a strong chance of reaching the knockout rounds, something Scotland have never managed in any of their previous eight World Cup appearances.

The win also marked a successful return to the global tournament for Scotland after a 28-year absence. Their last World Cup victory had come against Sweden in 1990, although it as a 2-1 defeat. Scotland next play Morocco in Boston on Friday, while Haiti will face Brazil in Philadelphia the same day.