Scotland’s 2022 World Cup hopes ended in comprehensive fashion after a 3-1 defeat by Ukraine in their play-off semi-final at an emotionally-charged Hampden Park.
Worldwide attention was on the game due to Russia’s invasion of their neighbours in February but when the focus turned to football it was Ukraine who were the more accomplished.
Scotland’s 39-year-old keeper Craig Gordon kept the visitors at bay only until the 33rd minute when skipper Andriy Yarmolenko deservedly put the visitors ahead and Roman Yaremchuk doubled that lead with a header three minutes after the break.
Midfielder Callum McGregor pulled a goal back in the 79th minute as Steve Clarke’s men rallied but it was too little too late and Ukraine substitute Artem Dovbyk drove in a breakaway third in added time to book a place against Wales in the play-off final in Cardiff on Sunday.
