Scotland makes group leadership expensive for Spain and Roberto Martínez signs a record with Portugal

MADRID, 8 Sep. (EUROPA PRESS) –

The Scottish soccer team won this Friday 0-3 against Cyprus and extended its ironclad leadership in Group A of qualification for the next Euro Cup in 2024, during a matchday 5 in which the Spanish coach Roberto Martínez set a record after Portugal’s victory (0-1) on its visit to Slovakia, within Group J.

At the AEK Arena in Larnaca, the Scottish team settled their game in the first half thanks to goals from Scott McTominay, Ryan Porteous and John McGinn. In a matter of half an hour, Steve Clarke’s men sealed their fifth victory in as many days.

15 points out of a possible 15 for Scotland, chased from second place by Spain with its six points achieved in three games. In that same Group A, the Norwegian team rested, having accumulated four points in the four games it has played.

On the other hand, the 0-1 at the Tehelné pole (Bratislava) served to certify the fifth Portuguese victory in Group J and, in addition, for Roberto Martínez to sign the best historical start for Portugal in a Euro Cup or World Cup qualifying phase. Bruno Fernandes, off a pass from Bernardo Silva, scored the only goal just before half-time.


Also 15 points out of 15 possible for the Portuguese team, with Slovakia in second place based on their 10 points. Luxembourg has the same amount after beating Iceland 3-1. The day was completed by Bosnia-Herzegovina’s 2-1 victory over last-place Liechtenstein.

Finally, in Group D, Croatia’s ‘little hand’ against Latvia brought them closer to the lead that Turkey still holds despite drawing at home with Armenia (1-1). A double from Bruno Petkovic made it 5-0 for the Croatians, who corroborated their great night in the city of Rijeka with goals from Luka Ivanusec, Andrej Kramaric and Mario Pasalic.