The National:

SCOTLAND’S traditional trajectory at major international tournaments is once again being played out.

First comes the giddy excitement, turning into expectation.

Next is the brutal reality check, delivered in the form of our heartbreaking loss to Czech Republic at Hampden.

All we need to complete the cycle is the team pulling off a shock win against England or Croatia, while falling just short of making the next round.

Throughout the gut-wrenching process, Scots can at least enjoy a sense of camaraderie as we enjoy a national pastime – having a good old chuckle at ourselves.

READ MORE: 'Bring on Euro 2044': Scotland reacts to losing opening game to Czech Republic

And gutted Scots have had a mighty chuckle today as they saw how one US pundit reacted to our defeat – and the outstanding goal which sealed it.

Czech forward Patrick Schick got both his side’s goals, but the second, flighted perfectly over a despairing David Marshall, will go down in tournament history.

The goal was so outrageous it was deemed worthy of a slot on ESPN’s bonkers “Ain’t No Way” segment, hosted by Stephen A Smith.

The National:

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Summing up the segment, he explained: “These are moments that are sometimes successful, sometimes not. But AIN’T NO WAY they should have ever happened.”

The presenter continued: “This is a special one-player edition of Ain’t No Way. This is Czech Republic taking on Scotland at Euro 2020.

“Patrick Schick launches a shot from just inside half-field and the ball flies over David Marshall for the goal.”

Smith, who was getting progressively more flirtatious with the camera, concludes: “Ain’t no way a shot like that should happen – ‘specially at Euro 2020.

“But it did. Maybe that’s why Euro 2020 is just so special right now.”

Scottish viewers were undoubtedly bemused, but nonetheless impressed.

Kevin Scott commented: “That’s sensational. Almost makes it worth it.”

Philip Murray added: “OMG, TV in the US is officially bonkers ... but my word did that make me laugh. Never knew that flirting with the camera was a recognised sports commentating technique.”

If you don’t laugh, you’ll cry.