Czech Mate: Schick brace condemns Scotland to 2-0 defeat
A functional performance by the Czech Republic was marked with a moment of magic by Patrik Schick as Scotland were defeated 2-0 in their opening game of EURO 2020.
The 24-year-old Bayer Leverkusen centre forward scored on both sides of the interval, with his second-half strike an early contender for goal of the tournament.
Following a speculative effort from Jack Hendry, the ball broke favourably for Schick, who fired his shot over David Marshall from the halfway line eight minutes into the second half. Marshall, who was in no man’s land when Schick took his shot, was left tumbling into his net as the ball crossed the line.
Scotland thrice went close to finding the back of the net, with a combination of fine goalkeeping, strong blocking, and the woodwork proving the difference. However, without the services of injured Kieran Tierney, the hosts were ultimately kept off the scoresheet.
Schick put the game beyond doubt for Jaroslav Šilhavý’s side on 52 minutes
At the other end of the field, the Czech Republic had no such issues. With three minutes remaining in the first half, Vladamir Coufal delivered the perfect cross into the box – allowing Schick to guide his headed effort into the bottom corner.
Both sides could have scored shortly after half time – but neither was ultimately able to find twine.
On 52 minutes, Schick put the game beyond doubt for Jaroslav Šilhavý’s side – firing a left-footed shot into Marshall’s net from the left of the centre circle.
Scotland, though, did not go down without a fight. Che Adams’ introduction gave the home side a spark in the final third – but it wasn’t enough to find a way onto the scoresheet.
The result sees the Czech Republic finish matchday one top of Group D, with England second following their 1-0 win over Croatia on Sunday afternoon.
Analysis: Scotland face ‘uphill battle’ at EURO 2020
Despite being the better side for much of their battle with the Czech Republic, Scotland will arrive at Wembley Stadium on Friday rooted to the bottom of Group D with their hardest fixtures ahead of them.
The Czech Republic was meant to be the nation that Scotland would beat. Clearly, Tomas Soucek and Co. didn’t get the memo.
Although the final score isn’t pretty ready for the Scots, Steve Clarke will be able to take some positives from his side’s defeat at Hampden Park. Andy Robertson was impressive at left wing back, while Che Adams performed impressively following the break.
There will be an inquest into the Czech Republic’s second goal
Moreover, Lydon Dykes had a clear opportunity to score saved – somewhat miraculously – by the outstretched leg of Tomas Vaclik in the second period. Had Dykes found the back of the net, perhaps the remainder of the tie would have been tilted in Scotland’s favour?
There will be an inquest into the Czech Republic’s second goal. Jack Hendry’s decision to shoot from range was the wrong one, although David Marshall’s positioning was equally suspect.
Scotland’s European Championship isn’t over – but they face an uphill battle to reach the round of sixteen now. Scotland must beat England or Croatia to stand a chance of qualifying. Even then, three points might not be enough.
Steve Clarke will be hoping for a reaction at Wembley on Friday evening. Will he get it from this Scottish side?
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