Scotland celebrated their first FIFA World Cup victory in 36 years after defeating Haiti 1-0 in their Group C opener on Saturday. John McGinn's first-half goal proved decisive as Steve Clarke's side secured a hard-earned win at Gillette Stadium.

The result marked Scotland's first World Cup victory since beating Sweden at Italia '90 and lifted them to the top of Group C. Haiti, meanwhile, returned to the World Cup stage after a long absence but left empty-handed despite producing an encouraging performance.

Scotland Make Bright Start

Scotland began the match confidently and looked dangerous from the opening minutes. Young winger Ben Doak created the first major opportunity when his low shot forced Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide into an early save.

Haiti responded well and enjoyed a promising spell of possession and attacking pressure. However, Scotland almost broke the deadlock when Scott McTominay struck the post with a first-time effort from the edge of the penalty area.

The Scottish side continued to push forward and eventually found the breakthrough in the 28th minute.

McGinn Delivers Historic Goal

The opening goal came after Placide made an excellent save to deny Che Adams from close range. The rebound fell kindly to John McGinn, who reacted quickly and fired toward goal.

His effort took two deflections before looping over the goalkeeper and into the net.

The goal not only gave Scotland the lead but also earned McGinn a place in the history books, making the Aston Villa midfielder Scotland's oldest goalscorer at a World Cup finals.

Haiti Continue To Fight

Scotland nearly doubled their advantage before half-time. Ben Doak delivered an inviting cross into the penalty area, but Lawrence Shankland headed narrowly wide.

Despite trailing, Haiti remained a threat. They almost benefited from a mistake by Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn, who spilled a powerful shot from Ruben Providence. Fortunately for Scotland, defenders reacted quickly and cleared the danger before Haiti could capitalise.

Scotland Miss Chances To Seal Victory

The second half offered fewer clear scoring opportunities, but Scotland continued to look dangerous on counter-attacks. Captain Andy Robertson delivered an excellent cross from the left wing that found Ben Doak at the far post. However, Haiti defender Martin Experience produced a crucial block to prevent a second Scottish goal.

Just after the hour mark, McGinn had another golden opportunity to secure the result. Under pressure from Ricardo Ade, he dragged his shot wide of the target and missed the chance to make it 2-0.

Haiti Push Late For Equaliser

Haiti refused to give up and increased the pressure during the closing stages of the match. Wilson Isidor came very close to scoring after meeting a dangerous cross from Ruben Providence, but he failed to make the crucial touch. Shortly afterwards, Frantzdy Pierrot directed a header just wide of the post as Haiti searched desperately for an equaliser.

The Caribbean side hoped to claim their first-ever World Cup point, but Scotland's defence stood firm under pressure.

Scotland Hold On For Important Win

Scotland remained disciplined in the final minutes and successfully protected their slender lead to secure a significant victory in their first World Cup appearance since 1998. The win gives Steve Clarke's team an excellent start to the tournament and puts them in a strong position in Group C.

Scotland will next face Morocco on June 19 after the North African side earned a 1-1 draw against Brazil. Haiti, meanwhile, will take on the five-time world champions Brazil as they look to bounce back from defeat and keep their qualification hopes alive.