September 12, (THEWILL) – England extended their 24-year unbeaten streak against Scotland, winning 3-1 in a friendly at Hampden Park to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the historic rivalry.
The hosts struck first when Phil Foden finished off a driving cross from Kyle Walker to put England ahead in the 32nd minute. Barely two minutes later, 20-year-old Jude Bellingham coolly slotted home to double the lead. Scotland pulled one back just after halftime courtesy of an own goal by Harry Maguire, but England restored their two-goal advantage late on thanks to a composed strike from Harry Kane.
The match featured multiple changes from both managers. Gareth Southgate made six adjustments to the England XI that drew Ukraine on Saturday, while Steve Clarke’s Scotland came in riding a wave of strong recent results. However, England’s quality shone through as the visitors controlled possession and created better chances.
The game was marred by unsavoury chanting from sections of both sets of supporters. Boos drowned out the English national anthem before kickoff, while a minute’s silence for former Scotland manager, Craig Brown, was interrupted by English fans.
On the pitch, Bellingham orchestrated play with maturity beyond his years, capping off a remarkable run of form for club and country. Kane’s goal moved him to 59 overall, but the night belonged to England’s bright young stars, who maintained the country’s decade-spanning dominance in this historic rivalry.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
