While McGinn scored the decisive goal, it was 19-year-old Ben Doak who propelled Scotland forward in the second half, providing the energy and impetus that the national team has so often lacked in big games.
The Liverpool striker has impressed while on loan at Middlesbrough this season and took his club’s form to the international stage, terrorizing Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol with his pace and trickery.
“He’s come into the team, he’s shown a very positive attitude, he gives us something different to what we’ve had before,” Clarke said of the former Celtic boy.
“He got the assist for the goal, maybe he could have given a couple more, maybe scored one himself.
“He is a young player who we must protect and look after, but we must realize that he is good for now and, hopefully, for a long time in the future.”
Doak was the Scottish player who had the most touches in the Croatian box, created the most opportunities and showed a bravery that sometimes only youth can provide.
“He’s got a lot of things – ridiculous pace, good skills and a lot of faith,” former Scotland winger Pat Nevin said on BBC Radio 5 Live.
“Tonight was a big breakthrough. Coming of age at 19 says a lot, but he is very, very special. At this moment, he seems indispensable for Scotland.”
The man himself downplayed its impact.
“I just try to do what’s best for the team and do what I’m good at,” Doak said. “If one of my actions leads me to win the game, then that’s great.
“I know I’m one of the youngest guys on the team and I’ll try to take advantage of every opportunity as best I can.”
