Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn has earned plaudits from the Scottish national media for his influential performance, despite Scotland suffering a narrow 3-2 away defeat to Greece in a crucial World Cup qualifier on Saturday night.
McGinn's Accomplished International Display
The match in Greece proved to be a dramatic encounter, with Steve Clarke's side finding themselves 3-0 down before mounting a spirited comeback. Goals from Ben Gannon-Doak and Ryan Christie brought Scotland back into contention, but a late equaliser proved elusive.
Despite the team's loss, John McGinn was a standout performer. The Villa captain played the full 90 minutes and had to navigate the game carefully after receiving an early yellow card in the 10th minute. According to The Scotsman, he emerged as "one of Scotland's more accomplished performers" and could be "pleased with his night's work." The publication awarded him a 7/10 rating for his efforts.
National Media Verdict on Villa Star
Other media outlets echoed this positive assessment. The Daily Record also gave McGinn a 7/10, highlighting his trademark turn and cross that set up Gannon-Doak's goal. They noted he "got better and better as the game wore on" and was inches away from creating a dramatic late equaliser.
The Edinburgh Evening News was slightly more reserved, awarding a 6/10, but acknowledged a significant improvement in his performance. They stated that after an early booking, he "tried his best to drive forward and spark an attack" and was "much better after the break," nearly grabbing a "handful of assists."
World Cup Hopes Remain Alive for Scotland
The defeat, while disappointing, does not end Scotland's qualification hopes. A draw for Denmark against Belarus means automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico is still within reach.
If Scotland can defeat Denmark on Tuesday evening at Hampden Park, they will secure their passage to the tournament. This would mark a historic achievement, as Scotland has not qualified for a World Cup since 1998.
Manager Steve Clarke described the match as a "crazy game, crazy night," expressing disappointment at the loss but pride in his players for not giving up. He confirmed the squad still has the opportunity to secure direct qualification.
For Aston Villa fans, McGinn's strong international showing is a positive sign as the club prepares to return to Premier League action with an away trip to face Leeds United at Elland Road after the international break. Villa recently secured McGinn's future with a new and improved contract, recognising his importance since joining the club in 2018, for whom he has made 301 appearances and scored 33 goals.
