Ben Gannon-Doak shines on World Cup debut as Scotland edge Haiti in Group C opener

Bournemouth winger Ben Gannon-Doak delivered an eye-catching display as Scotland took the lead against Haiti in their World Cup Group C opener — the nation’s first men’s World Cup fixture since France 1998. John McGinn’s heavily deflected effort on 29 minutes separated the sides at half-time, with Che Adams instrumental in the build-up before seeing his own close-range attempt saved.

Gannon-Doak, who made history as the youngest Scot ever to appear in the Premier League before joining Bournemouth from Celtic and Liverpool, has grown into an increasingly prominent figure under Steve Clarke since his senior international debut in 2024. Selected on the right of Scotland’s midfield, the winger gave the Haiti left back a torrid time throughout the opening period.

Former Celtic teammate Joe Hart was effusive in his praise during BBC punditry duties. “He’s been a real threat, and when he’s been able to stand up the Haiti left back, he’s looked really threatening,” Hart said. “His touch is excellent. You’ve got to remember, he’s a young man, new in his Scotland career, but he’s got so much confidence. He doesn’t care what the level is — he didn’t care when he came and trained with us at Celtic when he was 15 or 16. He has so much belief and wants to express himself.”

Scott Brown echoed those sentiments. “He’s good enough with the ball at his feet. He’s composed and confident. That’s what you want a Scotland player to be — direct, putting balls in the box. He created a chance for Shankland as well. Good ball, good delivery.”

Scotland had started brightly, with Lawrence Shankland seeing a shot blocked and Scott McTominay striking the post before McGinn’s deflected goal gave them the lead. Haiti grew into the contest as the half wore on, exploiting some loose Scottish play to enjoy the better of the remaining first-half exchanges, though Angus Gunn was rarely seriously tested.

The stop-start nature of the encounter was not helped by fussy officiating, but Gannon-Doak’s individual quality offered Scotland a consistent outlet and gave Clarke’s side genuine cause for optimism heading into the second half.