EURO2024: MORATA AND SANCET PROPEL SPAIN TO VICTORY AGAINST SCOTLAND

Oct 13,2023

Scotland experienced their first loss in the Euro 2024 qualifiers, succumbing to a 2-0 defeat in Spain. However, their chances of qualification are still intact. From the outset, La Roja dominated the game, showcasing their prowess. Ferran Torres and Alvaro Morata squandered two golden opportunities early on but then encountered difficulty in penetrating the Scottish defense, which often had all 11 players behind the ball. This resolute defending forced Spain to adopt a patient approach in their build-up, which was evident when Mikel Merino struck the woodwork just before halftime. The second half brought its own challenges for Spain, with the prospect of a sucker punch when Scott McTominay delivered a sublime free-kick that found the top corner, only to have it unjustly ruled out for a foul on the goalkeeper. This decision seemed to energize the hosts, who soon took the lead when Morata converted a cross from Jesus Navas. An unfortunate incident followed as Ryan Porteous tackled Oihan Sancet in the penalty area, leading to the ball deflecting off the forward and into the net.