It was a shock result as Scotland overcame mighty France in the Parc des Princes on Wednesday to go to the top of Group B in their UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying campaign. The result was a repeat of the qualifying game at Glasgow last year and leaves France in the third spot in Group B.

The first half began well for France and egged on by home fans they dominated possession for most of the first 45 minutes. Florent Malouda was a constant threat and forced Scotland keeper Craig Gordon to make a fine save early on. Franck Ribery also tested the Sunderland keeper as did David Trezeguet, but the latter's shot was well wide of the goal.

France goalkeeper Mickael Landreau was largely invisible in the first half except when striker James McFadden won a couple of quick corners midway through the first half. Alex McLeish was forced to make an early change bringing on Stephen Pearson to replace Darren Fletcher, who appeared to have injured himself when tackling Malouda.

Ribery continued to test Gordon after the start of the second half, but the Scottish keeper was equal to the task. Then against the run of play, James McFadden fired the Scots ahead with a brilliant hot from 30 yards out in the 63rd minute.

McFadden was replaced by Garry O'Connor with 15 minutes remaining, but he had done his job by then. The French laid siege to the Scotland penalty area during the dying minutes, but were unable to find a way past the resolute Gordon.

Scotland are on top of Group B with 21 points from nine matches, while France are on the third spot with 19 points from nine games.

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