Scotland defeated Belarus 2–1 in a World Cup qualifier on 10 October, with the hosts capitalising on superior efficiency despite Belarus's territorial dominance. Scotland's 4–2–3–1 setup proved tactically sound, generating 1.09 expected goals from just 12 shots, with six efforts on target. Che Adams and Scott McTominay each netted once to secure the three points. Belarus, operating in a 4–4–1–1 formation, dominated possession and registered 22 shots but managed only three on target and 0.86 xG, reflecting poor conversion in the final third. The visitors' goalkeeper made a 66.67 per cent save rate yet conceded exactly to xG, suggesting Scotland's clinical finishing proved decisive where Belarus lacked precision. Marian Barbu oversaw the encounter without incident. Scotland's victory consolidates their qualifying campaign momentum against a side that squandered numerous half-chances.