In the realm of international football, few rivalries can boast the longevity and intensity of the battle between England and Scotland. This historic clash of titans recently saw another chapter unfold as England secured a 3-1 victory over their ‘Auld Enemy’ at Hampden Park. This friendly match marked the 150th anniversary of their very first encounter, a monumental moment in football history that took place at the West of Scotland Cricket Club in 1872, with 4,000 passionate fans in attendance.
The England vs. Scotland rivalry is not just any ordinary football feud; it’s a contest deeply rooted in geographical proximity and historical tensions between these two neighboring nations. This intense rivalry finds its origins in that 1872 match, which is widely recognized as the world’s first international football match. As football began to professionalize in the late 19th century, debates emerged regarding the true inventors of the sport. While the Football Association (FA) in England established the rules in 1863, many Scottish teams were credited with pioneering aspects of the game such as passing and formations, elements that remain integral to football today. The FA faced challenges to its rules from newspapers and clubs in Scotland, adding fuel to the fiery rivalry.
While the ‘Auld Enemy’ may not be England’s sole focus in modern times, having developed rivalries with the likes of Germany and Argentina in the late 20th century, Scottish football fans still harbor a strong distaste for the Three Lions.
England vs. Scotland Head-to-Head Record
Here’s a snapshot of the wins, losses, and draws in the storied history of the England vs. Scotland fixture over the past 150 years, primarily during the British Home Championship era:
- Matches Played: 126
- England Wins: 49
- Scotland Wins: 41
- Draws: 26
Recent England vs. Scotland Encounters
After a hiatus of nearly 14 years, England and Scotland reignited their rivalry with friendlies in 2013 and 2014. Subsequently, the past three meetings have been highly competitive, including two World Cup qualifiers and a Euro 2020 group stage match that ended in a 0-0 draw at Wembley.
One of the most memorable clashes occurred in 2017 during a dramatic World Cup qualifier at Hampden Park. Two late Leigh Griffiths free-kicks seemed to secure a stunning 2-1 win for Scotland before Harry Kane delivered an equalizer with the final kick of the match.
List of England vs. Scotland Matches in the 21st Century
Here’s a breakdown of their encounters in the 21st century:
- Aug 14, 2013: Friendly at Wembley – England 3-2 Scotland
- Nov 18, 2014: Friendly at Celtic Park – Scotland 1-3 England
- Nov 11, 2016: World Cup 2018 Qualifying at Wembley – England 3-0 Scotland
- June 10, 2017: World Cup 2018 Qualifying at Hampden Park – Scotland 2-2 England
- June 18, 2021: Euro 2020 at Wembley – England 0-0 Scotland
- Sep 12, 2023: Friendly at Hampden Park – Scotland 1-3 England
The England vs. Scotland rivalry is a timeless spectacle that continues to captivate football enthusiasts worldwide. As these two footballing giants lock horns, they not only honor a rich history but also create moments that resonate through the ages.
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