Euro 2020: Schick double stuns Scotland and silences Hampden crowd | OneFootball

Scotland's first tournament match in 23 years ended in defeat after Patrik Schick's incredible halfway-line goal helped the Czech Republic inflict a deflating opening Euro 2020 loss at Hampden.

Schick's goal, which added to his headed first-half opener, punctured a carnival atmosphere with a sharp dose of reality for Steve Clarke's side.

Around 9,000 fans witnessed the Scots strike the bar amid a glut of chances, but hopes of a first foray beyond the group stage already looks a tough ask.

Scotland now go to Wembley with a heightened need for a positive result against a buoyant England, before their group campaign comes to a close against Croatia in Glasgow next Friday.

Scotland rampaged out the blocks. John McGinn's early snapshot triggered a roar from the crowd, every booming run and cross from Andy Robertson had the crowd on their feet. But as the game looked destined for a stalemate at half-time, the hammer blow arrived. A corner was just about cleared, only for the Scots to switch off.

Vladimir Coufal overlapped with space and time on his side, his delivery being met by Schick, who steered his header home while sandwiched between Liam Cooper and Grant Hanley.

Che Adams was introduced at half-time and he made a difference, but not before Marshall twice saved Scotland just seconds after the restart.

Scotland rallied again. A floated effort from Jack Hendry scudded the bar as Hampden gasped. They did so again as a sclaffed Tomas Kalas clearance looped over Vaclik, who just recovered to clear.

If only Marshall could have done likewise three later. Hendry's attempted drive was charged down with Scotland exposed badly.

The ball broke to Schick on the halfway line, and the Bayer Leverkusen man didn't even look up as his astonishing arcing shot arrowed over Marshall. Hampden was so silent the noise of it hitting the net could be heard.

Man of the Match: Patrik Schick (Czech Republic)