After a 23-year wait to qualify for a major tournament, Scotland’s Euro 2020 experience lasted just eight days after a 3-1 defeat to Croatia extinguished their hopes of reaching the last 16.
The Tartan Army will fondly remember frustrating England in a 0-0 draw at Wembley on Friday from their return to the international football limelight.
But a masterclass from Croatia’s Luka Modric sent Steve Clarke’s men packing from the tournament with a reminder of the class it takes to succeed at this level.
Three years ago, most of Scotland cheered as Croatia beat England to reach the World Cup final.
On Tuesday, fans of the Three Lions had their revenge as they celebrated Scotland’s exit while watching their side beat the Czech Republic 1-0 at Wembley to secure the top spot in Group D.
With both sides needing a win to secure their place in the knockout stages after taking just one point from their opening two games, Croatia’s greater experience in controlling their nerves across 90 minutes was telling.
After conceding early to Nikola Vlasic, Scotland struck back with their first goal of the tournament through Callum McGregor to go in level at half-time.
But their energy reserves ran dry in the second half as Croatia kept the ball and finally ended the Scots’ resistance in style.
