Scotland beaten by Portugal in qualifier

SCOTLAND PORTUGAL

Scotland’s women fell to their fourth defeat in five games with a 2-0 loss to Portugal in Larnaca.

A mistake led to Portugal’s opening goal in the first half before they sealed their victory in added time through Fatima Pinto for a second win over Scotland in European Championship Qualifying Group E.

Portugal took the lead in the 27th minute when goalkeeper Jenna Fife was put under pressure from a Rachel Corsie back pass, the shotstopper then tried to clear the ball but it rebounded off Ana Capeta and went into the back of the net.

The home side came close to an equaliser just before half-time when Martha Thomas was played in by Claire Emslie, but the 24-yearold was unable to get the decisive touch to take the ball past the goalkeeper.

Scotland put the pressure on in the second half, and limited Portugal’s opportunities with the ball but could not convert their possession into clear-cut chances.

With just over 10 minutes remaining, Manchester City’s Caroline Weir had a corner punched away, with Jen Beattie heading wide from the second attempt after the ball was put back into the box.

In added time Beattie was unable to head clear, and the ball fell to Pinto who fired home for her side’s second.