Gemmill hopeful of qualification

Archie Gemmill thinks his side are steadily improving

Scotland manager Archie Gemmill still holds out hope that his side can qualify for the last 16 of the Under-20 World Cup in Canada.

Europe's second ranked side have lost their opening two group games.

"A little bit more improvement and retention of the ball and we can do well against Costa Rica," he told BBC Sport after the 2-0 defeat by Nigeria.

"We played with a lot of heart, a lot of spirit, a lot of endevour and made a few chances at the end."

Interview: Scotland U-20 manager Archie Gemmill

Gemmill defended the use of several players out of position in Victoria, pointing out that he had lost three central midfielders to injury before the start of the tournament.

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And he thought it had been an improvement on the opening 3-1 defeat by Japan.

Now the Scots must defeat Costa Rica if they are to have a chance of qualifying from Group F as one the best third-placed teams.

"I thought it was a lot better than the last match," he said.

"We played a bit deeper and contained them.

"But to lose a goal at the start of the second half was a blow."