Scotland slip to defeat in second U17 Euros group match against Portugal

Portugal came out on top against Scotland in their second group-stage match of the UEFA European U17 Championship. 

Olivio Tomé opened the scoring for Portugal almost immediately after kick-off, and Gonçalo Sousa doubled their advantage 20 minutes in. Lennon Connolly scored a consolation goal for Scotland in the dying embers to make it 2-1 but could not find a way to level the tie.

Both sides entered the match looking for their first points. Portugal were hungry to put this right as soon as possible and had the lead in three minutes. The ball came whipped in from a corner, and while Callan McKenna did well to punch clear, it was only as far as Tomé who smashed home emphatically.

Portugal nearly had another, only minutes later. Gil Martens set himself up despite an awkward bounce and was unfortunate to see his effort crash against the woodwork.

Just before the 20-minute mark, Portugal set up an excellent press as Scotland attempted to play out from the back. Sousa then had the awareness and composure to take it around McKenna and pass it into the bottom left corner to make it 2-0.

After the half-time break, Portugal continued to probe for a third but were largely kept at bay by Scotland as they defended with heart regardless of their standing in the match.

Minutes before the full-time whistle, Scotland would have a goal. A cross from Bobby McLuckie was deflected back to the edge of the box, and Connolly nonchalantly placed an effort from 20 yards neatly into the bottom right corner. 

Both sides go have one more match to play in the group stage. Scotland will face off against Germany, while Portugal prepares for a clash against France.

Scotland Player of the Match: Ryan One

The right-back put in a great shift for his side, contributing defensively and going forward throughout the match with energy and determination. His great goal-line clearance in the first half kept his team in it.

Portugal Player of the Match: Gonçalo Sousa

The attacking midfielder put in the performance of the highest order. With a goal and an assist in a cup final, he couldn’t have wished for a better individual performance. He also showed good feet and intricate passing throughout.