Scotland marked its return to the FIFA World Cup after a 28-year absence with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Haiti in a Group C match on Saturday.

Midfielder John McGinn scored the decisive goal in the 28th minute when his shot from inside the box deflected off a Haitian defender and beat goalkeeper Johny Placide.

The victory gave Scotland its first World Cup win since a 2-1 triumph over Sweden at the 1990 tournament and its first appearance in the competition since France 1998.

With pre-tournament favorites Brazil and Morocco sharing a 1-1 draw earlier in the day, Scotland moved to the top of the Group C standings.

Haiti, making only its second World Cup appearance after debuting in West Germany in 1974, remains without a point in World Cup history.

Scotland came close to opening the scoring in the 17th minute when captain Scott McTominay struck the crossbar. The breakthrough eventually arrived after Che Adams’ effort was parried by Placide, allowing McGinn to capitalize on the rebound.

Backed by thousands of supporters known as the “Tartan Army,” Scotland controlled much of the first half at Gillette Stadium near Boston.

Haiti created its best chances after the break. In the 74th minute, Ruben Providence delivered a cross to Wilson Isidor, who failed to convert from close range. Frantzdy Pierrot then headed wide in the 84th minute as Haiti pushed for an equalizer.

Scotland will remain in Foxborough to face Morocco on Friday, while Haiti will take on Brazil in Philadelphia the same day.