Liechtenstein Vs. Scotland, 2012 European Championship Qualification: Scotland Keep Playoff Hopes Alive (Barely)

It may not have been the most emphatic victory, but Scotland beat Liechtenstein 1-0 in Vaduz on Saturday to keep a (very slim) hope of European Championship qualification alive. Brighton and Hove Albion striker Craig Mackail-Smith headed in a free kick from Phil Bardsley in the 33rd minute to score the only goal of the match.

The win leaves Scotland still technically in the running for a playoff position, sitting one point ahead of the Czech Republic in Group I. Unfortunately, Scotland's remaining match is against Spain, who remain perfect in the group. The Scots can hope that the reigning title-holders would go easy on them, considering Spain have already qualified for Euro 2012, but Friday's 2-0 win over Czech Republic makes that look unlikely. Meanwhile, Lithuania hosts Czech Republic, and with just five points in the group, it seems almost certain that the Czechs would be going through. However, Lithuania's one win in the tournament came while playing away at Olomouc, so surprises could happen.