Scotland’s dream of reaching the EURO 2008 finals got shut down by a last minute goal by Italy’s Christian Panucci. In a packed rain-soaked Hampden, the Scots were taken by surprise by Luca Toni’s early goal. The brave Scottish team gave the answer and equalized on the 65th minute, with captain Barry Ferguson. It seemed like the McLeish’s squad was still alive, but Panucci’s goal sealed the Italian victory and secured a spot for the Azzurri in Austria and Switzerland.

Scotland was brave. And that is why it is sad to see them go. Both teams were playing for survival since defeat would take either off the qualifying zone. At the end, the Scots almos scored the winning one, but McFadden was unhappy in his shot.

I don’t necessarily agree with the 4-5-1 formation McLeish adopted, but when you play against a strong Italian team on 4-3-3 there is really not much option.

Now with the victory, Italy has also opened up room for France to qualify. The French didn’t even have to put their boots on, as they have already guaranteed their spot in Austria and Switzerland with this result.

Here is Luca Toni’s goal.