Scotland Suffers 3-0 Defeat to Iceland at Hampden, Coach Clarke Faces Selection Pressure

Scotland suffered a disappointing 3-1 home defeat to Iceland, ranked 74th compared to Scotland's higher standing, raising concerns ahead of their World Cup qualifiers. The match saw significant goalkeeping issues, with injuries forcing 22-year-old Cieran Slicker into an unexpected and challenging debut, where he was at fault for multiple goals. Manager Steve Clarke faced criticism for sticking with experienced players like Grant Hanley despite fan calls for younger selections, while also incorporating recent club champions such as Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour. The team lineup featured a five-man defense and saw Max Johnston and George Hirst making their first starts, but the overall performance was lackluster, with many players appearing fatigued following their recent club successes. Clarke acknowledged the goalkeeping depth problem as a longer-term issue but is urgently seeking short-term solutions. With only one friendly left before the World Cup qualifiers begin in September, Clarke must address these squad challenges to improve the team's prospects.