Scotland ensured they prevented the ignominy of a fifth defeat in a row as a battling draw was secured towards Portugal within the Nations League.

Steve Clarke’s aspect are enduring a “robust” winless run that has now prolonged to 10 video games, however there was purpose for optimism right here in a gutsy defensive efficiency that annoyed Cristiano Ronaldo and the remainder of array of visiting forwards. Ronaldo squandered a few sightings at aim, heading over within the second half having been left alone within the Scotland field, whereas Craig Gordon additionally denied Bruno Fernandes with a superb save.

The Scots have been hit by an damage disaster, in addition to a run of late misfortune, however there was no twist at Hampden Park. They arguably had the sport’s greatest probability within the opening ten minutes as Scott McTominay arrived in trademark vogue into the world, however the Napoli midfielder headed straight at Diogo Costa. A draw nonetheless leaves Scotland dealing with the prospect of relegation from the highest tier of the Nations League.

Re-live all of the motion from Scotland vs Portugal within the Nations League beneath:

Bernardo Silva wins a corner down the right, but there’s no time to take it. The whistle goes, and Scotland have their first point of this Nations League campaign!

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No added time. Scotland quickly make their way down the tunnel to receive some beneficial tactical advice.

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Scotland: Gordon, Ralston, Souttar, Hanley, Robertson, Gilmour, McLean, Christie, McTominay, Doak, Adams.
Subs: McCracken, McCrorie, Barron, Dykes, MacKenzie, Irving, Porteous, Lindsay, Morgan, Nisbet, Gauld, Deviln.

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Portugal: Costa, Mendes, A Silva, Dias, Cancelo, Vitinha, Palhinha, Fernandes, Jota, Ronaldo, Conceição.
Subs: Velho, R Silva, Semedo, Dalot, Trincão, B Silva, Félix, Veiga, J Neves, Otávio, Leão, R Neves.

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Referee: Lawrence Visser (Belgium).

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🔢 One change from Saturday's match.

📺 Watch live here: https://t.co/uV8bYnxPV8#SCOPOR pic.twitter.com/KpWJkViqLG

— Scotland National Team (@ScotlandNT) October 15, 2024

“}, #U21EURO pic.twitter.com/eO6LJJvStV

— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) October 15, 2024

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The top-line statistic makes for grim reading: Scotland have won just one of their last 15 matches. That solitary victory doesn’t bring much succour either, coming as it did in an extremely unconvincing 2-0 against Gibraltar, a landmass roughly similar in acreage to that infinitely more picturesque rock, the Bow Fiddle, plus neighbouring fishing villages Portknockie, Findochty and Cullen.

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If that (admittedly scrumptious) statistic isn’t damning sufficient, right here’s some extra context. Derbyshire, who got here final in cricket’s County Championship this yr, gained one in all 14 video games. Rugby league’s London Broncos, backside of this season’s Tremendous League, gained three of 27 at a charge of 1 in 9. And the worst group within the NFL, the Carolina Panthers, ended final season 2-15. It doesn’t look good, although not less than Scotland didn’t commerce away Scott McTominay, Billy Gilmour and Ben Doak for Anthony Ralston. Poor Sir Purr.

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However the factor is, you possibly can push any outdated argument with knowledge, and that stat doesn’t inform the entire story. Scotland might have stunk the place out at Euro 2024, however their subsequent Nations League performances have been curate’s-egg stage at worst, extremely promising for those who’re being a little bit extra beneficiant. Steve Clarke’s aspect have gone toe-to-toe with three nominally higher sides in Poland, Portugal and Croatia, enjoying extraordinarily nicely for lengthy durations in every match, solely to undergo late sickeners each time: a slipshod late penalty right here, an equaliser judged millimetres offside there, the all-time relentless nature of the evergreen Cristiano Ronaldo the opposite.

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So sure, Scotland may do with some further high quality, it’s true, and at instances they’ve been their very own worst enemy. However they may additionally do with a little bit little bit of luck going their means for as soon as. Portugal, ranked eighth on the planet, won’t be one of the best opponents to face when trying to find that momentum-shifting break. However Scotland’s barren run has to finish someday, and Hampden is the place Portugal’s Iberian cousins Spain misplaced their final significant fixture, so why not tonight? Right here’s hoping, anyway. Kick-off is at 7.45pm. It’s on!

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Key occasions

Ewan Murray was at Hampden, and his report is in. Right here it’s! Thanks for studying this MBM. Nighty evening.

It’s now one win in 16 for Scotland, and ten matches with out victory in aggressive fixtures, however not less than they’ve snapped a four-game dropping run. Tonight’s level additionally offers them a preventing probability of avoiding automated relegation to League B. Maybe most significantly, they didn’t undergo any last-minute heartbreak: a fifth match in a row, after late winners for Hungary, Poland and Portugal, adopted by a late disallowed aim in Croatia, would have been an excessive amount of to bear. An excellent night for Steve Clarke and Scotland, then, even when it’s all to be taken in context. Child steps, small acorns, all that.

The opposite match in Group A1 has completed Poland 3-3 Croatia. The guests ended the match with ten males, keeper Dominik Livaković despatched off for catching Robert Lewandowski along with his studs. All of which suggests the desk seems like this tonight.

1. Portugal P3 W3 D1 L0 F7 A3 Pts 10

2. Croatia P3 W2 D1 L1 F7 A6 Pts 7

3. Poland P3 W1 D1 L2 F7 A9 Pts 4

4. Scotland P3 W0 D1 L3 F4 A7 Pts 1

Scotland host Croatia within the first sport of the November worldwide break, then journey to Poland for a match which can or might not give them an opportunity of escaping automated relegation to League B. Must be a number of enjoyable, which is one thing we’ll all have to remind ourselves after we begin moaning concerning the Premier League taking one more week off.

Some weapons-grade petulance by Ronaldo because the whistle goes. He needed the prospect to take the nook, however the clock had ticked over the four-minute mark, so the referee was inside his rights to blow for full-time. Ronaldo melts down, ranting on the referee, waving his arms about, giving the Scotland followers a double thumbs-down, earlier than storming off down the tunnel within the highest dudgeon. However by no means thoughts that show of eejitry: Scotland totally deserved their level after a resolute defensive show that additionally produced a few very respectable possibilities for Scott McTominay. It’s price noting that, for all Portugal’s domination of territory and ball, Craig Gordon didn’t have an excessive amount of to do.

FULL TIME: Scotland 0-0 Portugal

Bernardo Silva wins a nook down the best, however there’s no time to take it. The whistle goes, and Scotland have their first level of this Nations League marketing campaign!

90 min +4: Robertson crosses for Dykes. Scotland couldn’t, may they? Nope. Nevertheless it doesn’t matter as a result of …

90 min +3: The nook results in McTominay being stunned, and the whistle goes for a clock-eating free kick. Ronaldo back-heels the ball away petulantly, and is lucky not to enter the ebook, although it’s an act that doesn’t precisely do his group any favours with time working out.

90 min +2: A ball comes bouncing into the Scotland field from the best. It falls to Leão, who has time to measurement up a shot from eight yards. He skelps the ball … just for Devlin to unfold himself and block bravely! Out for a nook.

90 min +1: The primary of these 4 minutes goes by with out incident. Everybody’s serious about it, aren’t they?

90 min: Devlin’s first act is to usher an extended ball out of play for a aim kick, with the aforementioned Leão on his shoulder. There might be 4 further minutes.

89 min: Nicky Devlin comes on for his debut, changing Ralston, who was starting to be given the runaround by Leão at right-back.

88 min: Portugal throw on one other couple of gamers. João Félix and Nélson Semedo for João Cancelo and Vitinha.

87 min: Leão dribbles delicately down the left, leaving Ralston for mud. He cuts again for Fernandes, who slaps a first-time shot in the direction of the underside left. Gordon drops on the ball and grabs on the second try with Ronaldo lurking.

86 min: Bernardo Silva wins a nook down the best. Nothing comes of it, however Scotland can’t get out. They’re holding their form on the minute, although, which is one thing.

84 min: Dykes won’t be essentially the most refined participant on the market, however he’s a presence all proper. And right here he almost sends McTominay clear with a go made by way of the medium of diving header. Intercepted, however let’s dream, and what an help that would have been!

83 min: Dykes replaces Adams.

82 min: A cross into the Scotland field from the best. Ronaldo brings the ball down, 12 yards out, shifts it from proper to left, and lashes a wild shot proper of aim. He claims a nook, however isn’t getting one. Dias goes into the ebook for urgent the purpose too passionately.

81 min: Portugal proceed to hog the ball. The stress at Hampden is now palpable, with Scotland’s first level of their Nations League marketing campaign inside touching distance.

79 min: Cancelo curls a deep cross into the Scottish mixer from the best. Gordon rises highest to pluck the ball from the sky. Each defensive effort met with an enormous Hampden roar.

77 min: The match immediately goes basketball, as Scotland counter the counter, Morgan enjoying a cute reverse go down the best touchline to launch Ralston into acres. He’s acquired McTominay clear within the center, however overhits the low cross and McTominay is pressured extensive left, the place the transfer peters out. Oh my. A technique or one other, it’s simply not occurring for McTominay tonight in any respect.

76 min: … so for all Portugal’s domination, McTominay has arguably had one of the best two probabilities of the night. What a wierd sport soccer could be. Then up the opposite finish, Bernardo Silva jinks his means into house down the best and cuts again from the byline, however someway misses out Ronaldo, permitting Gilmour to calmly mop up.

74 min: One other enormous probability for McTominay! House for Morgan down the best. He crosses lengthy. Adams heads again throughout aim as an alternative of going for aim. Not the worst resolution, with McTominay shaping to shoot on the penalty spot, however someway the ball rears up and Scotland’s high scorer takes a fresh-air swipe.

73 min: Robertson commits to a sliding sort out and misses each ball and participant solely. Mendes is ready to steal away with the ball and cross, however fortuitously for Scotland and their embarrassed captain, the ball sails out of play for a aim kick. “This now jogs my memory of a typical SPL sport, with Portugal as Celtic and Scotland as, say, Ross County or St Johnstone,” writes Simon McMahon. “The one debate is whether or not Portugal/Celtic’s profitable aim might be scored simply earlier than or simply after the 90-minute mark.”

71 min: Gilmour’s poor backpass almost permits Ronaldo. Gordon rushes to the sting of his field to blooter clear and save his team-mates blushes.

69 min: It’s now 3-3 in Warsaw, Poland levelling issues up in opposition to Croatia by Sebastian Szymański. Not one of the best information for Scotland as they dream of avoiding automated relegation from League A, however not a hope-killer both.

67 min: Scotland make two modifications. Doak – the primary 18-year-old to start out consecutive video games for the Scots since Paul McStay in 1983 – and Christie make means for Morgan and Gauld.

66 min: McTominay works arduous down the best and wins Scotland’s first nook of the sport. Robertson swings it into the six-yard field. Hanley will get too near Costa and the whistle goes for a free kick.

65 min: McLean dribbles out of his personal field and appears to interrupt. He’s clipped by João Cancelo, cynically from behind, however the Portugal participant doesn’t go into the ebook. The ref feeling beneficiant.

64 min: Portugal are starting to say themselves once more. The second half unfolding very like the primary one did.

63 min: McLean over-elborates within the centre circle and items possession to Fernandes, who dribbles arduous down the inside-right channel earlier than slicing inside. He’s acquired choices within the field, however will get caught between taking pictures and crossing, and finally does neither. McLean breathes a little bit simpler.

61 min: Portugal make a triple change, hooking João Palhinha, Jota and the vigorous Conceição and sending on Bernardo Silva, Rafael Leão and Rúben Neves.

60 min: Adams is clipped to the ground and falls on the ball. A wee tussle with Dias ensues. The referee trots over to remind each that they’re grown males. Within the meantime, listed here are some existential musings courtesy of Justin Kavanagh: “Poor Scott McTominay, he escapes a relegation battle at membership stage to hitch a high, high Italian group, solely to seek out himself mired in one other relegation dogfight at worldwide stage. He’s the modern-day personification of the footballing Scots’ potential to grab despondency from the jaws of happiness. I make this commentary having spent a beautiful morning on the Scottish Soccer Museum this week, coming away asking if they provide any remedy for the poor individuals (thanks Peter!) who work there all these ‘so-close’ moments on video loop. All day. Each day!”

58 min: Conceição wins a nook down the best. Fernandes takes a wierd one which hits the close to publish and pings out for a aim kick. Unsure whether or not Gordon knew what was occurring there, or if the ball had curled out of play earlier than clattering the body of the aim. Both means, that put a couple of hearts in mouths.

57 min: Souttar sends McTominay into house. McTominay tees up Christie on the sting of the D, however Christie can neither shoot nor shuttle the ball extensive left for Robertson.

55 min: Portugal have loved 67 p.c of possession up to now. And now they’ve acquired the ball within the internet for the primary time, however solely after Mendes had dribbled the ball clearly out of play down the left and reduce for Ronaldo to faucet dwelling. No celebration. Ronaldo knew the rating.

53 min: Doak and Robertson mix cutely down the left, the latter swinging a cross in for Adams, who’s inches away from getting his head to the ball, six yards out. Perhaps it skimmed his eyebrows, it was that shut. However the ball flashes out for a aim kick.

51 min: Robertson’s deep outswinging free kick is harmful, forcing Costa to punch clear in a panic. However then the whistle goes for an excessive amount of Scottish shoving. Portugal go straight up the opposite finish and almost rating, Conceição exchanging passes with Ronaldo down the center earlier than blazing over from the sting of the field. He ought to have labored Gordon not less than. Someplace within the multiverse, Portugal have gone 2-0 up in double-quick time.

50 min: Doak drops a shoulder to make his means down the inside-left channel at pace, and is hacked down by the hanging leg of João Palhinha, who goes into the ebook. A free kick. Everybody strains up on the sting of the Portugal field.

48 min: Robertson misplaces a go within the midfield and permits his Liverpool team-mate Jota to tear off down the left. Jota clips again for Ronaldo, in acres on the penalty spot. Ronaldo heads over the bar. Nowhere close to. What an opportunity that was. Ronaldo seems pained, as nicely he may. The online ought to have bulged reasonably than his incredulous eyes.

47 min: All a bit scrappy. Neither group again in control but.

Portugal get the second half underway. No modifications.

Half-time promoting break. Join now! Join now! Join now? Join now!

HALF TIME: Poland 2-3 Croatia. No targets at Hampden, nevertheless it’s been a unique story in Warsaw. Piotr Zieliński gave the hosts a fifth-minute lead, just for Croatia to hit again with three targets in seven minutes halfway by the half, courtesy of Borna Sosa, Petar Sučić and Martin Baturina. All excellent news for Scotland, who really want the Croats to win tonight in the event that they’re to have any life like probability of avoiding automated relegation from League A … however Poland lowered their arrears simply earlier than the break by Nicola Zalewski, so every little thing’s again within the stability. As issues stand, Group A1 seems like this.

1. Portugal P3 W3 D1 L0 F7 A3 Pts 10

2. Croatia P3 W3 D0 L1 F7 A5 Pts 9

3. Poland P3 W1 D0 L3 F6 A9 Pts 3

4. Scotland P3 W0 D1 L3 F4 A7 Pts 1

HALF TIME: Scotland 0-0 Portugal

No added time. Scotland rapidly make their means down the tunnel to obtain some useful tactical recommendation.

43 min: Conceição slips Cancelo into house down the best. Cancelo dinks a cross in from the byline. Ronaldo is lurking however Gordon half clears. Vitinha meets the dropping ball on the sting of the D and slashes over. Scotland may do with listening to the half-time whistle.

41 min: … however Portugal come straight again at Scotland, Ronaldo welting a wild try miles over the bar from distance. Hampden celebrates by slipping again into panto mode.

40 min: Conceição in acres down the best. He’s acquired choices within the center, or may shoot himself, however makes an attempt a wierd cutback to … nicely, who? Adams intercepts and clears.

38 min: Scotland get their press going, and Portugal ship possession to McLean, who makes an attempt to seek out Doak with a right-to-left cross, however critically overcooks it. A bit of higher from the hosts.

37 min: … and also you’d assume there’s no actual want for Portugal to be claiming issues they don’t deserve, as a result of they’re nicely on high, and certainly a gap aim is simply a matter of time. They’re coming at Scotland from all angles, with Conceição borderline unplayable.

35 min: Hanley ushers a ball rolling very slowly again in the direction of the Scotland field. It makes it simply in time for Gordon to assert on the road. Fernandes screams to recommend Gordon had dealt with the ball out of the field, however that’s clearly not the case, and he’s actually making an attempt it on.

34 min: Conceição is an absolute menace down the best. Yet one more cross, this time met by Ronaldo, whose header instigates a fast sport of pinball. Scotland clear. Ronaldo claims a penalty for handball, however come on and are available off it.

Key moments

Thomas Tuchel is getting ready to turning into the subsequent England supervisor, and will even be unveiled by the top of this week.

An settlement on foremost phrases comes after swift talks between the German coach and the Soccer Affiliation over the weekend, with the 51-year-old’s curiosity growing after it turned clear that Manchester United weren’t but going to maneuver on Erik ten Hag.

Tuchel will consequently turn into the third overseas England supervisor, and the third totally different county represented, after Sweden’s Sven-Goran Eriksson and Italy’s Fabio Capello. Whereas that component might deliver debate from traditionalists in English soccer, particularly given the character of the soccer rivalry with Germany, the FA’s sole focus is bringing this period to fruition and profitable the 2026 World Cup.

Remark: England’s assertion signing of Thomas Tuchel exhibits as a lot desperation as inspiration

The truth that the match is generally going down in america can also be understood to have had some affect on the thought course of, on condition that that is set to be probably the most commercially profitable worldwide competitors in historical past.

Tuchel does characterize a “field workplace” title however has primarily been chosen as a result of he suits precisely what the FA desires on the pitch.

The German is ready to marry subtle trendy ways with tournament-suited pragmatism and is aware of lots of the gamers from his time at Chelsea. He’s additionally very near captain Harry Kane from their season collectively at Bayern Munich, with Tuchel having pushed for the switch in the summertime of 2023.

It was his time at Chelsea that ensured Tuchel shortly turned an “anglophile”, nonetheless, and he has been eager to work within the nation once more. The nationwide crew was consequently seen as an ideal appointment, as he instantly eyes including the World Cup to his 2021 Champions League medal with Chelsea.

The appointment is seen as no reflection on Lee Carsley, who impressed within the job in footballing phrases and is seen by the FA’s technical employees as a possible appointment for the long run.

There has additionally been gratitude at how the interim has dealt with questions on the long run, even when that did result in public contradictions over whether or not he truly needed the job. That’s rather more comprehensible now, as England have made an announcement appointment.

The FA didn’t reply to questions concerning the course of, which has been carried out in notable secrecy. Though Pep Guardiola had beforehand been the primary candidate, he’s anticipated to provide Manchester Metropolis yet another 12 months. The FA in the meantime didn’t wish to wait indefinitely and pressed forward as soon as Tuchel responded positively to overtures made in the beginning of the season.

Thomas Tuchel has been confirmed as the brand new England supervisor.

The previous Chelsea supervisor will start work on January 1, 2025 forward of England’s qualification marketing campaign for the 2026 World Cup.

Interim boss Lee Carsley will stay in control of the workforce for the remaining UEFA Nations League video games towards Greece and Republic of Eire earlier than returning to his position with the U21s.

Tuchel, described as “among the finest coaches on the earth” by FA CEO Mark Bullingham, will likely be joined in his position as Gareth Southgate’s successor by English assistant coach Anthony Barry.

“I’m very proud to have been given the honour of main the England workforce,” mentioned Tuchel.

“I’ve lengthy felt a private connection to the sport on this nation, and it has given me some unimaginable moments already.

“To have the possibility to signify England is a big privilege, and the chance to work with this particular and gifted group of gamers could be very thrilling.

“Working carefully with Anthony as my assistant coach, we’ll do every little thing we are able to to make England profitable and the supporters proud.

“I wish to thank The FA, particularly Mark and John, for his or her belief and I’m trying ahead to beginning our journey collectively.”

Tuchel, 51, turns into the third non-Englishman to carry the put up after Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello.

The German boasts appreciable elite-level expertise having led Chelsea to Champions League glory in 2021 and in addition taken cost of Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich.

The FA had made it clear at the beginning of its recruitment course of in July that nationality was not a difficulty, it simply needed the very best individual for the job.

Evaluation: ‘A rare scenario…the deal is completed’

Sky Sports activities Information senior reporter Rob Dorsett:

“He has signed the contract to take over as Gareth Southgate’s successor.

“We predict a information convention at Wembley at 1.30pm on Wednesday which chief government Mark Bullingham will attend, reply some questions and clarify his choice.

“It isn’t but been confirmed if Tuchel will likely be at that information convention however I might totally count on him to be.

“It is a rare scenario with England appointing solely the third non-English supervisor to take cost of the boys’s senior soccer workforce – and naturally a German coach as nicely with all the further controversy that it will convey, and the rivalry between England and Germany that goes again so many a long time.

“However the deal is completed. It has occurred rapidly as Tuchel is a free agent having left Bayern Munich in Could. I suspected it’d drag on as he must take a major pay reduce to affix England, half the €9m wage he was on in Munich.

“I count on he’ll earn round £4.5m to £5m – a major pay reduce for a really embellished membership supervisor.

“This will likely be his first job in worldwide administration, in one in every of if not essentially the most high-profile job in worldwide administration. This can be a coup for the FA, with out a shadow of a doubt, as a result of he is gained plenty of trophies wherever he is been. That is why he is received this job.

“John McDermott desires a coach who can get England over the road and win a primary main trophy since 1966. Tuchel has signed the contract and he’s out tonight celebrating that truth.”

Is that this a kneejerk response to Greece recreation?

“I do not assume it’s. The Greece defeat created plenty of ripples across the FA headquarters. They have been shocked that England may lose a recreation towards Greece having cruised by means of qualifiers for the World Cup and towards weaker groups below Gareth Southgate and thru his whole tenure.

“They have been shocked and I believe it led them to vary their view on whether or not Carsley was the correct man transferring ahead. He then struggled with a number of the media duties and tied himself up in knots with a few of his solutions to key questions on his future and what the FA have been on the lookout for.

“I believe it centered the minds within the FA that they wanted someone quickly and that they wanted somebody to take the reins, they wanted safety and ensures transferring ahead for the supporters and the FA as an organisation. The England males’s supervisor is a figurehead and an envoy of that organisation.

“However that is additionally essential for the gamers as they have been beginning to surprise if he was going to be the supervisor on a full-time foundation. That is not good in a squad when you have doubts within the squad over whether or not the supervisor goes to be there long-term.

“All of that introduced their plans ahead somewhat bit. Whereas Tuchel was all the time on their checklist, it’s true that two weeks in the past, the FA hadn’t spoken to him. I did not perceive that. Thomas Tuchel, Jurgen Klopp, Eddie Howe, Graham Potter – all of whom we thought have been on the England shortlist… they hadn’t interviewed any of them. So what was the method?

“They’ve moved fairly rapidly to determine that Tuchel is the person they need. John McDermott determined he needed somebody who has gained silverware, a giant character and somebody who will likely be comfy with something we throw at him within the media.

“Thomas Tuchel has fallen out together with his bosses earlier than, however he is gained plenty of trophies.

“Gareth Southgate, for all his brilliance as an envoy and his brilliance in making a tradition in that England workforce, and a love throughout the camp of gamers who needed to play for his or her nation, he did not ship the final word trophy.

“That was what his FA bosses needed. They’ve ripped up the copybook somewhat bit right here. Gareth Southgate was an FA man, Tuchel is much from that, and he is German – which will likely be controversial in many individuals’s eyes, however the precedence is to win a significant trophy.

“If Tuchel delivers on that, the followers will likely be delighted.”

How will England play below Tuchel?

“Wherever he is gone, he is performed attacking, constructive soccer. We have heard from folks in his camp in the present day who informed us very clearly that his pitch to the FA was to promote this concept of high-octane soccer.

“He’ll get plenty of England’s attacking expertise onto the pitch. They may play with a excessive press and with a excessive power.

“That is what he’ll count on of him and will probably be a gorgeous fashion that England followers will wish to see.

“It is one thing Gareth Southgate was accused of not doing for therefore lengthy however – only a phrase of warning – that’s what Lee Carsley tried the opposite day towards Greece and England got here a cropper and seemed actually open.

“They misplaced 2-1 nevertheless it may have been 4-1 or 5-1 in fact. Gareth Southgate mentioned to me that he was not a fantasy soccer supervisor, he’s the England supervisor. He cannot crowbar all of the expertise in.

“He mentioned that it’s essential to have a system, and Tuchel is aware of that too as he is a superb tactician. England will rating and he’ll hold them safe on the again. The hope is that he can flip it right into a successful components.”

Key questions for Wednesday’s press convention:

• When will Thomas Tuchel begin his reign?
• Why has Tuchel accepted this place?
• What was the method to nominate Gareth Southgate’s successor?
• What does this imply for Lee Carsley?
• What does this imply for the FA pathway?

Evaluation: Is Tuchel the correct match for England?

Sky Sports activities’ Peter Smith:

It is laborious to think about a extra strenuous set of off-field circumstances for a soccer supervisor to have to deal with than these he confronted at Chelsea however the German repeatedly introduced honesty, integrity and character to his press conferences throughout his time at Stamford Bridge. It was admirable management in essentially the most making an attempt of circumstances.

The credit score to Tuchel is that, when he was sacked by Todd Boehly and co in September 2022 his fame was enhanced, each by way of his work as a coach and as a figurehead for a soccer membership.

Together with his extra high-profile experiences at Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain and most just lately Bayern Munich, there may be few managers who know higher methods to take care of the microscopic evaluation manufactured from operators on the very prime finish of world soccer and the challenges they face.

The England position is maybe essentially the most intensely scrutinised of all of them – however there may be few coaches higher ready for that component of the job.

Learn Peter Smith’s characteristic in full right here

Kane: Tuchel is unbelievable

England captain Harry Kane on Thomas Tuchel and the hyperlinks to England:

“Till it is introduced clearly I can not actually remark, however we have now to attend and see.

“Clearly, I do know Thomas nicely from final yr. Implausible coach, unbelievable individual, so I’m certain the blokes on the FA will contact me once they know extra about it.”

Might Tuchel reignite Kane’s England profession?

Sky Sports activities’ Sam Blitz:

“Thomas Tuchel has a wide-ranging CV and is one in every of Europe’s most skilled managers. However a vital consider him getting the England job is his relationship with Harry Kane.

“The England captain is the Three Lions’ all-time report goalscorer with 68 targets however is at the moment enjoying under his ordinary requirements.

“Kane has been substituted in every of his final seven England appearances – together with a fairly limp show within the Euro 2024 closing, the place questions have been raised about his health ranges.

“What higher strategy to reignite Kane’s worldwide profession by bringing within the statistically finest coach of his membership profession, from a goalscoring perspective?

“At Bayern Munich, Kane scored 44 targets in 45 matches below Tuchel, which got here to a objective each 89 minutes – the England captain was just about assured to be on the scoresheet each recreation.

“The two-1 dwelling defeat to Greece, which Kane sat out on account of harm, additionally shone a lightweight on what England may appear like after Kane has gone. The Three Lions weren’t solely poor in assault however in creativity too – that they had simply two pictures on track.

“Tuchel has not been fully good in relation to Kane. He infamously took the England captain off with Bayern main 1-0 at Actual Madrid within the Champions League semi-final on account of again complaints. Moments after Kane got here off, Actual Madrid scored twice to win 2-1, with Bayern’s finest striker on the bench in response.

“However for all of the potential controversy that might come up from Tuchel’s arrival at England, the nation’s most essential participant might be getting a giant enhance.”

England’s different non-English managers

Sven-Goran Eriksson (2001-2006)

Document: Performed 67, gained 40, drawn 17, misplaced 10, scored 128, conceded 61, win ratio 59.7 p.c

Match historical past: 2002 World Cup quarter-final, Euro 2004 quarter-final, 2006 World Cup quarter-final.

Strengths: Cherished by the gamers, to whom he was extremely loyal, and that helped foster an ideal workforce spirit and character. Calm below strain, each on the sector and off it with the media after quite a lot of tales about his personal life.

Weaknesses: His loyalty to chosen gamers in a settled squad usually left him hamstrung or reluctant to herald wildcard picks. The fashion of soccer was not very entertaining and was criticised for not getting extra out of England’s ‘golden era’.

Fabio Capello (2007-2012)

General report: Performed 42, gained 28, drawn eight, misplaced six, scored 89, conceded 35, win ratio 66.7 p.c.

Match report: Final 16 at 2010 World Cup, certified for Euro 2012.

Strengths: Arrived with a stellar CV and training report, having gained league titles with AC Milan, Actual Madrid, Roma and Juventus. In depth tactical knowhow produced defensively sturdy, disciplined groups.

Weaknesses: The English language – he as soon as mentioned he wanted solely 100 phrases to speak with the gamers. Nevertheless, that did nothing for his relationship with the media. His man-management was additionally discovered wanting as Capello additionally handled the gamers like schoolchildren, which was an enormous change from his predecessor and never one well-received with the squad who described their 2010 World Cup base as a “luxurious jail”.

Lionel Messi and Argentina discover themselves in an unexpectedly precarious place atop the World Cup qualifying standings as they host CONMEBOL minnows Bolivia on Tuesday night.

The Albiceleste face a double barrel of awkwardness having disappointingly drawn Venezuela on the weekend whereas conventional bottom-feeders Bolivia shocked Colombia to drag themselves into the thick of qualification. The truth is, Argentina solely stay in first place due to Colombia’s upset, who squandered a possibility to leapfrog Messi and firm.

This fixture has normally been a foregone conclusion, as Bolivia have historically struggled away from their La Paz fortress and taking part in in opposition to a world big on the street has confirmed too tall a job. But on this second, with Argentina abruptly susceptible and Bolivia driving an excellent run of kind, there are some whispers that this time may very well be totally different.

Bolivia have not crushed Argentina since a 2-0 World Cup qualifying win at dwelling in 2017, and so they have by no means crushed Argentina on the street.

MORE: An entire information to betting on soccer in america

Argentina vs. Bolivia prediction, odds

• Moneyline lean: Draw (+1200)
• Rating prediction: Argentina 1-1 Bolivia
• Finest guess: Bolivia double likelihood (+800)

There isn’t any query that Bolivia have improved prior to now few months, and they’re going to make issues powerful on a short-handed Argentina.

Any expectations of a first-ever win in Buenos Aires ought to be properly wanting the mark, however a draw is properly inside their attain. With such skewed odds in the direction of the reigning World Cup and Copa America winners, there’s huge worth on the guests pulling out an upset.

	BetMGM (USA)
Argentina win	-1400
Draw	+1200
Bolivia win	+2800
Each groups to attain	Y: +140 N: -210
Over / Underneath 3.5 targets	O: -155 U: +110
Argentina -2.5 targets	-160
Bolivia +2.5 targets	+115

Argentina vs. Bolivia match details

• Date: Tuesday, October 15, 2024
• Kickoff Time: 9 p.m. native (8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT)
• Location: Estadio Mas Monumental (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
• Referee: Kevin Ortega (PER)
• Final assembly: Bolivia 0-3 Argentina (Oct. 15, 2024 | World Cup qualifying)

MORE: Staff information and predicted lineups for Argentina and Bolivia forward of this World Cup qualifier

Argentina vs. Bolivia finest guess

• Decide: Each groups to attain — Sure
• Odds: +140 (BetMGM)

There’s completely cause to consider that Bolivia can discover a aim on this match, one thing they’ve failed to perform in every of the final 5 matches in Argentina.

This Argentina facet is injury-stricken, with out workhorse Nico Gonzalez and Marcos Acuna, whereas Alexis Mac Allister is not absolutely match and Alejandro Garnacho withdrew from the squad. They have been, extremely, out-shot by Venezuela final outing, by a 16-8 margin (6-4 heading in the right direction).

Match that up in opposition to Bolivia, who’re in distinctive attacking kind during the last three video games, and it may very well be bother. La Verde managed to place up 14 pictures on Colombia at dwelling whereas taking part in a person down, scored twice at Chile regardless of simply 5 complete pictures, and ripped off 4 targets on Venezuela with 19 complete pictures.

Argentina vs. Bolivia prop guess

• Decide: Underneath 3.5 complete targets
• Odds: +110 (FanDuel)

Whereas we consider Bolivia can discover the web, we additionally know the match might be cagey. The goal-scoring odds are extraordinarily juiced contemplating Argentina’s historical past in opposition to Bolivia, having put no less than three targets previous their opponents in every of the final three conferences, however this is not the identical Bolivia they’re going to be up in opposition to.

Underneath the management of recent supervisor Oscar Villegas, Bolivia have blanked Colombia and Venezuela and conceded simply as soon as to Chile on the street.

In the meantime, Argentina seemed listless for lengthy stretches in opposition to Venezuela, even with Lionel Messi on the sector. Lionel Scaloni does not historically look to blow groups out, as a substitute pushing to manage video games and win 2-0. This may very well be cagey, particularly if Bolivia proceed to look as organized as they’ve in latest video games.

Lionel Messi may solely increase his arms in appreciation as his most adoring followers serenated him with love and admiration.

Messi’s brilliance was on full show in his native Argentina, scoring a hat trick and delivering two assists in a 6-0 rout of Bolivia in a World Cup qualifying match on Tuesday night time.

It was Messi’s first match in Argentina in 334 days, and the beloved World Cup champion left followers at Estadio Mâs Monumental in Buenos Aires with an evening to recollect. They noticed Messi’s tenth hat trick with Argentina, and the primary recreation with a number of objectives and assists in his nationwide staff profession. 

It was a efficiency that leaves little doubt in regards to the kind he’s in earlier than his MLS Cup playoff run with Inter Miami later this month. It additionally leaves Messi’s legion of followers questioning how for much longer they are going to take pleasure in his greatness.

“It’s nice to return right here, to really feel the love of the individuals. I am excited once they shout my title,” Messi stated after the sport. “All of us benefit from the reference to the individuals and we love enjoying in Argentina. We’re pleased with the win.”

Messi scored a objective within the 19^th minute and dished his two assists earlier than halftime. His last two objectives got here inside two minutes of one another within the 84^th and 86^th minutes. It’s his first hat trick since he scored three objectives for Argentina in a 7-0 win over Curaçao on March 28, 2023.

It was an emphatic efficiency by Messi, the Inter Miami star who has performed in seven matches within the final month in his return from a proper ankle harm within the July 14 Copa America last that sidelined him for two ½ months.

Messi has 112 objectives with Argentina, second place on the all-time listing, forward of Iran’s Ali Daei (108). Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 133 objectives for Portugal, together with 10 hat tips.

The 37-year-old all-time soccer nice is aware of he solely has restricted alternatives to play in Argentina in his storied profession. Messi is below contract with Inter Miami via the top of 2025, and hope will proceed to linger about his likelihood to play in World Cup 2026.

However talks of the following World Cup or retirement will wait for an additional day.

Messi is simply having fun with the second.

“I haven’t set a date or deadline. I simply wish to take pleasure in all of this,” Messi stated. “I’m extra excited than ever to be right here and really feel the love of the individuals as a result of I do know that these might be the final video games.”

Messi stretched out his arms in celebration as the gang erupted after he scored within the 19^th minute, capitalizing from a steal by teammate Lautaro Martinez to search out the underside proper nook of the web to open the scoring.

Messi later discovered Martinez for a fast move on his left aspect within the 43^rd minute and delivered a move into the field to Julian Alvarez in further time (45’+3’) for his two assists.

Former Atlanta United standout Thiago Almada additionally scored (70’) for Argentina, which leads the Conmebol World Cup qualifying standings with 22 factors after 10 matches.

Simply earlier than the match went last, Messi stole the present once more with two objectives in a two-minute span to cap his memorable efficiency.

Tuesday’s match capped a travel-filled week for Messi with the nationwide staff. They settled for a 1-1 attract Venezuela final Thursday, after arriving late within the nation from Miami through Columbia forward of Hurricane Milton. He’ll return to South Florida on Wednesday and rejoin Inter Miami for the membership’s playoff chase.

Messi and Inter Miami have already clinched the MLS Supporters’ Protect with one of the best document in 2024. They want a win within the season finale Saturday at residence towards New England Revolution to set the MLS document with 74 factors.

Then, Inter Miami’s run within the MLS Cup Playoffs start on Oct. 25 with home-field benefit all through the playoffs.

“That is what drives me. Having fun with being completely happy the place I’m,” Messi stated. “Regardless of my age, once I’m right here I seem like a child as a result of I really feel comfy with this staff. So long as I really feel good and might proceed to carry out as I intend, we’ll proceed to take pleasure in it.”

Take a look at these highlights from the Argentina vs. Bolivia match:

Lionel Messi hat trick: Argentina 6, Bolivia 0

Lionel Messi has a hat trick, scoring for the third time within the 86^th minute.

Lionel Messi objective: Argentina 5, Bolivia 0

Lionel Messi has scored once more within the 84^th minute, this time along with his proper boot as an alternative of his legendary left boot.

Messi charged into the field, crossed over a defender to his proper foot, and ship his second objective of the match into the web.

Thiago Almada objective: Argentina 4, Bolivia 0

Argentina has prolonged its lead within the second half, with a proper boot from former Atlanta United standout Thiago Almada within the 70^th minute.

Messi will get second help on Julian Alvarez objective: Argentina 3, Bolivia 0

We’ve bought a rout in Argentina, and Lionel Messi’s brilliance is throughout it.

Messi despatched a move into the field, and Julian Alvarez scored in further time simply earlier than halftime (45’+3’) to provide Argentina a 3-0 lead over Bolivia.

It’s the second help for Messi, who additionally scored within the nineteenth minute to kick issues off for the World Cup champions.

Messi assists Lautaro Martinez objective: Argentina 2, Bolivia 0

Lionel Messi has already scored. Now, he has an help.

Messi charged towards the web once more, however dropped off a move to Lautaro Martinez for a objective within the 43^rd minute and Argentina’s 2-0 lead over Bolivia simply earlier than halftime.

Whereas Messi clearly had an opportunity to attain once more, he discovered Martinez streaking down his left aspect. And Martinez was impressed to level to Messi as the 2 celebrated the rating.

Martinez was the Copa America Golden Boot winner after main Argentina with 5 objectives in the course of the event this summer season.

Lionel Messi objective spotlight: Argentina 1, Bolivia 0

Messi capitalized on a unfastened ball after a problem by teammate Lautaro Martínez, and charged his approach to the web. The one particular person in his path was the Bolivian goalie. And Messi made fast work of the chance, discovering the decrease proper nook of the web.

Messi stretched out his arms to the Argentine crowd, having fun with their admiration whereas his teammates ran to have fun their 1-0 lead over Bolivia.

What time is the Argentina vs. Bolivia match?

It begins at 8 p.m. ET (9 p.m. in Argentina).

The place to observe Argentina vs. Bolivia stay stream?

The match will likely be broadcast by NBC Universo. Streaming additionally out there on fubo.

Is Messi enjoying tonight?

Sure, Messi is within the beginning lineup for Argentina towards Bolivia.

Argentina vs. Bolivia betting odds

The percentages are stacked towards Bolivia on this one: Argentina is an awesome favourite (-1400), whereas Bolivia is (+2800) to win and a draw is (+1200) after regulation. The over/below on objectives scored is 3.5, in accordance with BETMGM.

When was the final time Messi performed in Argentina?

The final time Messi performed for Argentina in his residence nation wasn’t one of the best of outcomes.

Argentina misplaced 2-0 to Uruguay on Nov. 16, 2023, the membership’s first misplaced since falling to Saudi Arabia within the opening match of the Qatar World Cup.

Shedding isn’t an typically prevalence for Argentina, the reigning World Cup and two-time defending Copa America champions: They’ve misplaced simply 4 instances of their final 67 matches they’ve performed.

Messi’s busy week continues with Argentina match

The Argentine nationwide staff traveled from South Florida to Colombia, then Venezuela earlier than settling for a 1-1 draw towards the Venezuelan nationwide staff final Thursday.

Argentina had a full follow Monday, after a light-weight session on Sunday, earlier than Tuesday’s match towards Bolivia.

After the Bolivia match, Messi will return to South Florida and Inter Miami follow.

Inter Miami will play its season finale on Saturday towards New England Revolution with an opportunity to clinch 74 factors and the MLS document for factors in a season.

The excellent news for Messi: He’ll have per week earlier than Inter Miami begins the MLS Cup Playoffs on Oct. 25.

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Victoria’s Secret fashions are returning to the runway for the lingerie firm’s style present, following a six-year hiatus of the once-famed occasion.

Tuesday night time’s occasion would be the first time the corporate hosts a full style present since Victoria’s Secret execs introduced the present’s cancellation in 2019.

On the time, the style business was going through backlash amid the physique positivity, transgender rights and #MeToo actions, which noticed modeling as a key business for change.

And controversial remarks from then-Chief Advertising Officer Ed Razek solely introduced extra scrutiny.

“Shouldn’t you might have transsexuals within the present? No. No, I don’t suppose we should always,” Razek stated on the time, utilizing an outdated time period for transgender folks. He additionally stated that there was little interest in seeing plus-sized ladies on the runway and stated the present was meant to be a “fantasy.”

Razek later resigned amid that and different controversies.

Now, because the fashions as soon as once more don the corporate’s fashionwear, Victoria’s Secret says its values have shifted and the 2024 present will likely be a mirrored image of these adjustments.

Writing on Instagram again in Could, the corporate stated: “We’ve learn the feedback and heard you. The Victoria’s Secret Style Present is BACK and can mirror who we’re as we speak, plus the whole lot and love—the glamour, runway, wings, musical leisure, and extra!”

Previous Victoria’s Secret superstars like Jasmine Tookes and Adriana Lima will make their return to the stage, in addition to plus-size mannequin Ashley Graham. Tv host and supermodel Tyra Banks, who final walked a runway within the 2005 Victoria’s Secret present, can even be part of the solid.

Hoping to usher in a wider viewers, the style present will likely be out there for streaming on Amazon’s Prime Video, in addition to new media platforms: YouTube, TikTok and Instagram.

The previous a number of years have been robust financially on Victoria’s Secret as competitors within the mid-range lingerie market has grown and the model identify misplaced a few of its luster amongst youthful consumers.

A triumphant return of its annual style present, which at its peak noticed 12.4 million viewers, may assist the corporate claw again a few of its declining market share.