Gannon‑Doak’s breakout helps Scotland beat Belarus 2-0 in World Cup qualifier

Scotland forward Ben Gannon‑Doak produced a standout performance as Steve Clarke’s side beat Belarus 2-0 in a World Cup qualifying match at the ZTE Arena in Zalaegerszeg on Monday, helping open up the visitors’ defence even though he did not find the net.

The 19‑year‑old, signed by Bournemouth for a reported £25 million, repeatedly troubled Belarus full‑backs with rapid dribbling and direct runs, forcing the opposition to reshuffle at half‑time when Sergei Karpovic was replaced by Vadim Pigas. Gannon‑Doak was withdrawn with about 16 minutes remaining.

Inside the largely empty arena — a reminder of the quiet that accompanies matches played without full crowds — Gannon‑Doak’s direct play repeatedly unsettled defenders who alternated between close marking and fouling attempts. Scotland’s opening goal and overall attacking rhythm were aided by the forward’s ability to penetrate and create space for team‑mates.

Gannon‑Doak said he keeps a measured approach to public reaction and prioritises learning from games. “It’s brilliant to feel that from the fans, but I don’t look at social media,” he said. “I try to never get too high or too low. I don’t want to let the praise or stick affect me. It’s about keeping my head in the game.”

The Scotland manager has seen the 19‑year‑old gain experience at club level, including a productive loan spell with Championship side Middlesbrough, and Clarke regards his presence as a positive development for the national team as qualifying fixtures continue. Gannon‑Doak acknowledged the need for more minutes at club level to refine decision‑making: “The only way to do that is by playing games… If you get one wrong, you need to think in your head — the next time that happens, I’m going to do this or that. It’s just a matter of experience.”

Gannon‑Doak missed out on Clarke’s squad for the European Championship owing to injury last summer, a development he and the team have previously described as unfortunate. His involvement at the start of the World Cup qualifying campaign, which included a draw in Denmark and Monday’s win, has contributed to a more positive tone around Scotland’s group stage prospects.

Scotland travel to Hampden Park on October 12 to face Belarus again, with the nation aiming to build on the two wins and four points collected over the international window. Clarke’s side will also face Greece in the coming fixtures; a positive outcome in those matches would strengthen Scotland’s position in the qualification race.

Gannon‑Doak’s club situation remains central to his international progression. He reflected on being left out of the starting lineup against Denmark and said he accepted the manager’s decisions while focusing on training and performance. He added that time at Liverpool’s academy earlier in his career helped him understand the standards required at the top level: “You learn that you’ve got a long way to go in the game. You learn about the level that’s required to be a world class player when you see the guys in that squad.”

Scotland’s victory over Belarus marked another step in a campaign Clarke hopes will return the national team to major‑tournament competition. For Gannon‑Doak, the match offered further evidence of his capacity to influence high‑level international games and underlined the immediate task of converting club opportunities into consistent development at Premier League level.

As Scotland prepare for October’s fixtures, the emphasis from players and staff was on consolidation and steady progress rather than celebration. Gannon‑Doak said he will return to Bournemouth seeking more minutes and added: “If I do that at club level, I’ll come back for Scotland even sharper and who knows what might happen? Maybe we could get to the World Cup.”