Germany cruise to 3-1 Nations League win in Glasgow
Kai Havertz scored the crucial second goal as Germany condemned Scotland to a 3-1 defeat in the Nations League at Hampden Park.
John McGinn had given Scotland a surprise lead with a drive after just 54 seconds of the match, but Ilkay Gundogan equalised from Timo Werner’s cross.
Havertz slotted home from Werner’s pass in the second half to put Germany ahead. Werner then finished off a flowing move by bundling home from close range after being set up by Havertz.
The result leaves Scotland bottom of Group B2 with only two games remaining – away to Ukraine on Tuesday and a home match against the Czech Republic on 27 September.
The disappointing defeat followed a poor performance in the 3-0 loss against the Republic of Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.
Steve Clarke’s team produced a spirited start on Wednesday night and took the lead after just 54 seconds.
Lyndon Dykes forced Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck to concede possession inside his own penalty area and the ball broke to McGinn, who drove the ball into the net for his eighth Scotland goal.
It was Scotland’s quickest goal for 22 years, but the lead only lasted until the 18th minute.
Werner broke down the left and found Gundogan, who slotted the ball past Craig Gordon from 15 yards.
Scotland threatened only sporadically after the equaliser, with Ryan Fraser blasting over the bar from the edge of the penalty area.
Germany took control as the second half progressed, with Havertz putting them ahead in the 60th minute.
Werner was again the provider, pulling the ball back for the Chelsea forward to score from 10 yards.
Scotland struggled to create chances and a sweeping move in the 86th minute ended with Sadio Mane crossing for Werner to bundle the ball over the line from close range.
The defeat leaves Scotland with a mountain to climb in their bid to win promotion to League A.
Scotland
Germany
Scotland
Germany
Referee: Maurizio Mariani (Italy)
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B. McDowell
