Adams Hat-Trick Lifts Scotland in 4-0 Win Over Liechtenstein

Che Adams’ Hat-Trick Powers Scotland to 4-0 Win Over Liechtenstein

Scotland bounced back from their loss to Iceland with a 4-0 friendly win over Liechtenstein, thanks to a Che Adams hat-trick, but head coach Steve Clarke insists the camp still leaves a “disappointing” aftertaste ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Clarke’s side needed a morale-boosting display after a 3-1 defeat to Iceland and a March loss to Greece in the Nations League play-offs. And they got it—at least in terms of result—against a Liechtenstein side ranked 205th in the world.

Fast Start Sets the Tone

Adams got Scotland off the mark in just the 4th minute, capitalizing on early pressure. The Torino forward then doubled the lead midway through the first half, slotting in confidently after Lennon Miller forced a turnover in midfield.

The 23-year-old Miller, making his first Scotland start, was one of several positives for Clarke on the night. He played a key role in Adams’ second goal and impressed throughout with confident passing and forward momentum.

More Goals and Fresh Faces

The scoring continued in the second half as George Hirst netted his first goal for the national team, poking in Adams’ flick from an Anthony Ralston cross. Adams then completed his hat-trick with a well-placed header from Tommy Conway’s delivery.

Ross Doohan, who cut short his holiday to join the squad amid a goalkeeping injury crisis, had little to do on his debut but earned his first cap.

There were also senior debuts for Andy Irving, Josh Doig, Connor Barron, and Kieron Bowie, highlighting a youthful edge to the squad rotation.

Clarke: “Still a Disappointing Camp”

Despite the win, Clarke remained cautious.

“There’s not really a feel-good factor because it’s still a disappointing camp,” Clarke said. “We didn’t play as we can play at Hampden. There was hurt and anger in the dressing room, and hopefully we can carry that into September.”

Scotland next face Denmark away on 5 September in the opening round of World Cup qualifiers. Clarke will be hoping the momentum from this performance can translate into competitive success in the autumn.