For the first time since 1998, Scotland have qualified to the FIFA World Cup and they needed a string of heroic performances to do so.
First from Scott McTominay, who delivered an overhead bicycle kick to put Scotland ahead in the third minute and Kieran Tierney’s brilliant strike in the 93rd minute put the Scots up 3-2, before Kenny McLean’s audacious chip sealed the win and secured Scotland’s place in next year’s World Cup.
Despite going down by a man in the 62nd minute following Rasmus Kristensen’s dismissal, Denmark were on their way to the World Cup after Patrick Dorgu scored in the 82nd minute to tie the game since a draw would have been enough to qualify.
Speaking to the BBC after the brilliant win, Liverpool defender Andrew Robertson described the occasion as one of the greatest nights in his life.
“I’m so glad it’s ended up this way. This group of boys, this group of staff – it’s the best group I’ve been involved in.”
Andy Robertson of Scotland tackles Gustav Isaksen of Denmark which results in a penalty during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
“We were quite emotional. To do it for him, the staff and all our families, it’ll go down as one of the greatest nights of my life.”
Scott McTominay of Scotland celebrates at full time during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
“That just sums up this squad. Never say die. We just keep going right to the end and one of the craziest games. We put the country through it, but I’m sure it’s worth it. We’re going to the World Cup” Robertson said.
Scotland’s Andrew Robertson (centre) celebrates with team-mates after they qualified for the 2026 World Cup after beating Denmark 4-2 (Photo by Jane Barlow/PA Images via Getty Images)
Scotland exited at the group stage at the 1998 World Cup after drawing with Norway but lost to Brazil and Morocco.
