John McGinn scored the winner as Scotland secured a 1-0 win over Haiti in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener at Boston Stadium on Sunday.
The Aston Villa midfielder proved to be the difference, helping Scotland return to the World Cup with a win, 28 years after their last match at the tournament and 36 years after last registering a victory.
Steve Clarke’s side began the match on top of proceedings and almost broke the deadlock in the 17th minute, but Scott McTominay’s effort from just outside the box hit the woodwork.
Just over 10 minutes later, Scotland opened the scoring through McGinn’s goal. Ben Gannon-Doak, who became the youngest player to represent Scotland at a World Cup, fired a low cross into the box which was pushed away by goalkeeper Johny Placide.
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The ball fell nicely to McGinn, who took a touch to set himself up, before hitting a bobbling left-footed effort that found its way into the back of the net, making the scoreline 1-0.
McGinn almost made it 2-0 in the 73rd minute, but his low shot went just wide. At the other end, Ruben Providence came close to finding an equaliser, but his curling effort also went wide.
Haiti continued to push for a late leveler in the final minutes of the game, but they were unable to find a breakthrough as Scotland held on to claim a hard-fought victory.
The result takes Scotland top of Group C, ahead of Brazil and Morocco who drew 1-1 in their opening game. Next up for Scotland is a tough clash against Morocco on Friday, June 19. Meanwhile, Haiti face a daunting task against Brazil on Saturday, June 20.
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