Group H: Scotland’s first World Cup match in 20 years wasn’t a victorious one as Colombia got their campaign off to a winning start this afternoon in Samara courtesy of a first-half strike from 23-year old Internacional forward Alejandro Aparicio^® in an otherwise even contest.

Both teams started the match cautiously, with the first effort on target with almost half-hour played providing the only goal of the game. A Colombian goal-kick was worked forward by Guarin and Carbonero, with the latter playing Aparicio through. His shot from the edge of the box was pushed away by Marshall, but Aparicio reacted quickest to slot home the loose ball.

Scotland twice tested Ospina before the break, but after the interval it was Colombia who tightened the screw, with Marshall called into action on five occasions but matched everything sent his way.

The final 20 minutes became a stop-start affair due to some niggly fouls and all six substitutions, and Scotland couldn’t find an equaliser amidst the broken-up play. They’ve got Mexico next, with Colombia due to face Croatia.

                    FIFA WORLD CUP: GROUP H
                     SCOTLAND 0-1 COLOMBIA
                                  Aparicio 27

                        Berra     Aparicio
                      Forrest     Guarín
                                  Armero