Scotland's national football team has secured a place in the World Cup for the first time since 1998, following a thrilling 4-2 victory over Denmark at Hampden Park. The match saw Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean score crucial goals in stoppage time, ensuring Scotland's qualification for the tournament to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico next year.
The game began with Scott McTominay scoring an overhead kick, setting an exciting tone. Denmark's Rasmus Holjund equalised from a penalty after Andy Robertson's foul. However, Lawrence Shankland restored Scotland's lead following Rasmus Kristensen's red card. Patrick Dorgu then levelled for Denmark, but Tierney's stunning 93rd-minute goal put Scotland ahead again.
Robertson expressed
his emotions after the match, reflecting on his late Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota. "I've hid it well, but today I've been in bits. I know the age I'm at, this could be my last chance to go to the World Cup," he told BBC Scotland. "I couldn't get my mate Diogo Jota out of my head today. We spoke so much about going to the World Cup. I know he'll be smiling over me today. "
Scotland's captain praised his team's resilience and determination throughout the match. "That just sums up this squad. Never say die. We just keep going right to the end and one of the craziest games," he said. Robertson also highlighted the impact of their manager's motivational speech before the game, which reminded them of past successes like qualifying for the Euros.
Kieran Tierney described scoring as one of his best feelings ever, emphasising that everyone involved deserved this achievement. Fellow goalscorer Kenny McLean echoed these sentiments, acknowledging how long they had waited for such a moment and expressing pride in their accomplishment.
Scotland has now won four out of their last six encounters with Denmark across all competitions, matching their previous ten meetings' win tally (W4 L6). The team narrowly avoided having to compete in play-offs by securing this victory.
The Scottish team will learn about their World Cup group when the draw occurs on December 5th. As they prepare for this significant event, both players and fans are celebrating a historic night that will be remembered fondly by all involved.
This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone for Scottish football as they look forward to competing on the world stage once more after a long absence from the tournament scene.
