Scotland's preparations for the upcoming World Cup hit an early stumbling block following a narrow defeat to Japan in their opening warm-up friendly at Hampden Park.
The decisive moment arrived in the dying stages of a tightly contested match. Japanese substitute Junya Ito broke the deadlock in the 84th minute, firing home a late strike that consigned the hosts to a frustrating loss on home soil.
Scotland had their share of opportunities early in the encounter, with midfielder Scott McTominay notably being denied a potential opening goal that could have shifted the momentum in favor of Steve Clarke's side.
The disappointing conclusion to the match drew a harsh vocal reaction from the stands. Clarke later admitted he was both surprised and disappointed by the sound of boos ringing out from sections of the Scotland support, leaving the squad with plenty to reflect on as they look to regroup for their continuing World Cup build-up.