France is in a state of shock today after one of the worst weeks in the country's sporting history.
First, the hosts of the Rugby World Cup were stunned 17-12 by Argentina on the tournament's opening night.
Then, less than week later, the French fell to a hungry Scotland side in a Euro 2008 qualifier in Paris.
Particularly galling was the fact that Scotland had beaten France in their first Group B meeting in Glasgow.
A lack of interest by the local faithful allowed Scotland fans to buy up empty seats. At game time, the Tartan Army was 20,000 strong inside the stadium—with their flags flying and their voices at full pitch.
In fact, one could argue that Scotland were playing with twelve men, as their supporters won the battle of the crowd in getting right behind their side.
And it was fitting, then, that those fans who made the journey witnessed a historic victory.
The game was an edgy affair, with Scotland determined to maintain their defensive stall. The first half ended without a goal, as the French, who were minus Thierry Henry, managed only a few chances.
As the game wore on, the Scots started to pick up a few small breaks. The French created some chances of their own, forcing a handful of superb saves from Sunderland's Craig Gordon.
In the 64th minute, a Gordon goal kick found James McFadden of Everton with his back to goal over 30 yards out. After a single touch, he turned and unleashed an unstoppable shot into the French net.
The Scots were ahead again—deja vu for the French!
The Scotland fans went crazy; the French players looked stunned. The game continued as before, with the French pushing forward but creating little headway. A handball in the box by Scotland skipper Barry Ferguson in injury time went unnoticed by the officals—and the final whistle gave Scotland their first win in France in over 50 years.
As for the rest of Group B—a win for Italy (2-1 over Ukraine in Kiev) keeps them in contention, and two points still separates the top three sides.
The Scotland fans partied all night around the Eiffel Tower, winning great affection from the French public. The Scots are, in my opinion, the best fans in the world.
I've personally never been so proud of a nation—not only the players, but the magnificent Tartan Army.
If nothing else, they'll always have Paris.
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