Heartbreak Continues for Scotland as VAR Denies Crucial Draw Against Croatia
Once again, the Scottish national football team finds itself grappling with the cruel nature of international football. Their latest disappointment unfolded in Zagreb against Croatia, where VAR disallowed a late equalizer, dashing hopes of a much-needed result. It feels like a recurring theme for Steve Clarke’s side—another match slipping through their fingers at the death. With a heart-stopping moment in the 94th minute, Scotland appeared to have rescued a point, but it wasn't meant to be. Offside was called, and with that, yet another defeat was sealed.
Scotland's recent run of form has been anything but encouraging. Despite a valiant effort against top-tier teams like Spain, Portugal, and now Croatia, the results have not gone their way. Clarke's men have managed only one win in 15 games, which has led to mounting pressure and growing scepticism among the fans. It seems no matter how close they come, whether it's a 100th-minute goal against Hungary or a disallowed goal against Croatia, Scotland is unable to break the cycle of late heartbreaks.
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This defeat stings particularly hard because it wasn't for lack of effort or resilience. Scotland showed fight in Zagreb. They even took the lead, with the team displaying a level of defensive discipline that has been missing in previous games. Croatia’s star player, Luka Modric, was kept quiet for much of the first half, showing Scotland's ability to stifle world-class opposition. However, as has been the case lately, their inability to hold on when it counts most has become their Achilles' heel.
Steve Clarke has found himself defending not only his tactical decisions but also the very character of his team. Despite positive signs, such as the emergence of promising young talents like Ben Doak, the overall narrative remains one of frustration. The head coach is fighting a battle against the rising tide of cynicism, which is increasingly difficult to stave off as the losses pile up. For many, it’s not just about the missed results but the emotional toll of seeing the team come so close, only to fall short time and time again.
As Scotland prepares to face Portugal next, the weight of expectation grows heavier. Cristiano Ronaldo, with his relentless hunger for goals, is looming on the horizon. Clarke will need to summon every ounce of resilience from his squad if they are to turn their fortunes around. Despite the setbacks, there remains a glimmer of hope—when key players return from injury and the young talents mature, perhaps a new phase of Scottish football can emerge. Until then, the anguish continues, and the Tartan Army can only hope that the heartbreak ends sooner rather than later.
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