John McGinn fires Scotland to 1-0 victory over Haiti in first World Cup match in 28 years

Foxborough, Massachusetts: Scotland celebrated their return to the FIFA World Cup with a narrow 1-0 victory over Haiti on Saturday, ending a 28-year absence from football's biggest stage and moving to the top of Group C.

Captain John McGinn scored the decisive goal in the first half at Gillette Stadium as Steve Clarke's side secured their first World Cup win since defeating Sweden in 1990. The result put Scotland ahead in the group after Brazil and Morocco shared the points in a 1-1 draw earlier in the day.

For Haiti, appearing at the World Cup for only the second time and the first since 1974, the search for a first-ever point at the tournament continues.

McGinn breaks the deadlock

Scotland began brightly and nearly found an early breakthrough when Ben Doak tested Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide with a low effort inside the opening minutes.

The Scots continued to create chances and came close again in the 17th minute when Scott McTominay struck a powerful effort that narrowly missed the target after grazing the frame of the goal.

Their pressure eventually paid off in the 28th minute. Placide blocked a close-range attempt from Che Adams, but the rebound fell kindly for McGinn. The Scotland captain reacted quickest and saw his shot from inside the area take a deflection off a defender before beating the goalkeeper.

The goal marked Scotland's first strike at a World Cup finals tournament since their last appearance in 1998 and gave the travelling supporters plenty to celebrate.

Haiti threaten after the interval

Backed by a sea of Scotland fans who filled large sections of the stadium, Clarke's side looked comfortable for much of the opening half and nearly doubled their advantage before the break when Lawrence Shankland headed narrowly wide from a dangerous cross.

Haiti, however, grew into the contest and produced their most dangerous moments after the interval. Ruben Providence remained a constant threat down the flank and nearly created an equaliser midway through the second half when his delivery found Wilson Isidor, whose attempt failed to trouble Angus Gunn.

The Caribbean side pushed forward again in the closing stages. In the 84th minute, Frantzdy Pierrot rose highest to meet a cross but directed his header wide of the post as Scotland survived a tense finish.

Ideal start for Scotland

McGinn had an opportunity to put the match beyond doubt during the second half but failed to convert from a promising position as Haiti continued to press for a leveller.

Despite the late pressure, Scotland's defence remained organised and held firm to preserve the lead and secure a valuable three points.

The victory gives Scotland an encouraging start to their campaign and leaves them top of Group C heading into a difficult meeting with Morocco on Friday at Gillette Stadium. Haiti, meanwhile, will travel to Philadelphia to face group favourites Brazil as they continue their quest for a first World Cup point.

(With inputs from agencies)