Scotland’s first appearance at a major tournament since 1998 has ended in defeat after they lost 2-0 to the Czech Republic in their opening Euro 2020 game.

Two goals from Patrik Schick – including a spectacular long range effort from close to the halfway line which looped over Scotland goalkeeper David Marshall – gave the Czechs victory at Hampden Park in Glasgow.

Both sides feature in the same group as England, who overcame Croatia with a 1-0 win at Wembley on Sunday.

Around 12,000 fans were at the stadium for the game – reduced from capacity due to coronavirus restrictions.

Thousands of Scotland football fans belted out the national anthem at Glasgow’s Euros fan zone ahead of the men’s team appearing at their first major competition since the World Cup in France 23 years ago.

Schick header the visitors ahead just before the break, but it was his second goal in the 52nd minute which will be remembered.

Schick’s effort came from around the halfway line and officials said it had set a new tournament record.

UEFA said it was the longest distance for a goal in the history of the tournament at 49.7 metres, beating the previous record of 38.6 metres from Germany’s Torsten Frings at Euro 2004.

Scotland had just lost possession in their half and Schick spotted Scotland goalkeeper Marshall off his line and his looping, curling shot squeezed inside the near post to give his side a 2-0 lead.

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