France shocked by Scotland

Scotland have defeated France 1-0 at the Parc des Princes in one of the shocks of qualification so far. James McFadden's goal in the 64th minute was enough to upset the French, and completed a memorable victory for the Scots. However, Alex McLeish has warned his heroes not to get too carried away.

McFadden struck from 25 metres in the 64th minute as Scotland clinched their second victory against the World Cup finalists in their bid to reach next year's finals.

Alex McLeish's side have 21 points from nine games and lead Italy, who grabbed a 2-1 win in Ukraine, by one point.

France, who had the clearest chances in the second half, conceded their first goal in six matches and dropped to third place two points off the pace.

McFadden stunned the hosts with a strike which could prove decisive in November when the Scots' bid to qualify for their first major finals since the 1998 World Cup finally ends. McFadden said his chance simply came down to the striker's instinct as he hit the ball home from 25 metres.

"We trained here last night and balls were flying everywhere," he said.

"It was just one of those things. I got a touch, turned and there was no one there so I decided to have a go."

Alex McLeish later praised his heroes as they completed one of the most remarkable of results. The ex-Rangers boss said,

"We needed passion tonight and this is something which the Scottish team has always had. My players showed a great deal of confidence, we needed something special, we knew that a win would be hard to get. We needed a feat and we got it.

"There have been many great moments for me as manager but that match gives me one of the greatest nights of my football life.

"I saw the goal all the way, it was just magnificent, James is so accurate with the ball."