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Scotland drops from top tier in Nations League following Greece's crushing victory

Scotland drops from top tier in Nations League following Greece's crushing victory

Scotland saw a relegation from Nations League A following a 3-0 loss to Greece at home.

Steve Clarke’s team had a promising start, but goals from Giannis Konstantelias, Konstantinos Karetsas, and Christos Tzolis put the visitors 3-1 ahead on aggregate just 15 seconds into the second half.

The crowd at Hampden Park voiced their disappointment as Scotland struggled to get back into the match.

As a result, they now move down to the lower tier of the competition ahead of the upcoming group matches in the autumn of 2026.

Scotland welcomed back Ryan Christie to the lineup after his suspension, with Lewis Ferguson being the only player to miss out following the 1-0 victory in the first leg.

Greece made six changes, including giving Karetsas his first start. The 17-year-old's presence was instrumental in turning the game in Greece's favor in the second half.

Sir Alex Ferguson made an appearance before the match, paying tribute to Denis Law by holding up a number 10 shirt. A minute's applause was also held for Scotland's joint-record goalscorer during the first home international since his passing.

The hosts began brightly.

Che Adams had an appeal for a penalty waved away, and Scott McTominay had a shot saved after being played in by Kenny McLean.

Following that, Andy Robertson missed the target with a shot, and McTominay had another effort deflected wide.

However, Greece leveled the aggregate score in the 20th minute with their first real chance.

Robertson was caught out as Karetsas found Georgios Vagiannidis, who set up Giannis Konstantelias to score from close range.

Scotland almost responded instantly. McTominay missed the target before setting up John McGinn, whose effort was saved by the goalkeeper.

Greece extended their lead in the 42nd minute as Scotland failed to track Konstantelias once again.

Robertson tried to close down the midfielder, leaving Karetsas unmarked to double the advantage.

Konstantelias then assisted Tzolis right after the break, extending Greece's lead.

Boos echoed around the stadium as Karetsas scored another goal to compound Scotland's misery.

The home fans voiced their disapproval when Billy Gilmour was substituted in the 55th minute. Changes were made, but Scotland struggled to create clear chances.

Clarke made attacking substitutions, but Scotland couldn't find a breakthrough. Tzolakis denied Tierney with a late save, summing up Scotland's frustrating night.