But the manner of defeat was far different from the disappointing night against Hungary in Stuttgart in other ways.
Clarke lined up with a back four rather than deploying three centre-backs and the extra midfielder helped Scotland have the better of possession, more attacks and more attempts on goal than their opposition.
Scotland were able to show more attacking intent and were unfortunate to be two goals down at half-time following Sebastian Szymanski's longrange strike and Robert Lewandowski's spot-kick.
Clarke's men fought back through goals from Napoli newcomers Billy Gilmour and Scott McTominay but a needless foul by Grant Hanley handed Nicola Zalewski the chance to win the game from the spot seven minutes into added time at Hampden.
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