Cieran Slicker's Scotland debut was one he'll likely want to forget, as the young goalkeeper endured a difficult night in a 3-1 home defeat to Iceland. The friendly match, held at Hampden Park on June 6, 2025, was intended as part of Scotland's preparation for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, but it turned into a frustrating affair marred by individual errors and Iceland's clinical finishing.

Slicker's introduction to the game came far earlier than anticipated. Just six minutes into the match, starting goalkeeper Angus Gunn sustained an injury after landing awkwardly. This forced manager Steve Clarke to call upon the 22-year-old Slicker, thrusting him into the spotlight in front of the home crowd. Unfortunately for Slicker, his debut quickly turned sour.

Only moments after entering the pitch, Slicker was picking the ball out of his net. A short kick from the keeper was intercepted, leading to Andri Gudjohnsen, son of former Premier League star Eidur Gudjohnsen, firing a shot from 20 yards. The ball looped over Slicker and nestled into the top corner, giving Iceland an early lead. Two more poor kicks from the keeper did nothing for confidence.

Scotland did manage to find an equaliser in the 25th minute through John Souttar, who headed home from a Max Johnston corner. However, the respite was short-lived. Just before halftime, Iceland regained their lead in unfortunate circumstances for Slicker. A corner wasn't properly gathered by the young keeper, and the ball ultimately deflected off Scotland midfielder Lewis Ferguson and into the net for an own goal.

The second half brought no improvement to Slicker's fortunes. In the 52nd minute, Iceland extended their lead further. A free-kick from Albert Gudmundsson was met by Victor Palsson, whose header squirmed through Slicker's gloves and into the back of the net. The error compounded a miserable night for the young goalkeeper, who was visibly dejected.

While Scotland pushed to get back into the game, their efforts were ultimately fruitless. George Hirst had a goal disallowed by VAR for offside, adding to the home side's frustration. Despite the disappointing result, there was a positive note as Lennon Miller, also earned his Scotland debut.

Speaking after the match, Steve Clarke expressed sympathy for Slicker, acknowledging the difficult circumstances of his debut. He noted that the team would look to call up another goalkeeper for their upcoming match against Liechtenstein. Clarke confirmed that young Callan McKenna would travel with the team to Liechtenstein after training with the squad prior to the Iceland game.