Scotland will return to the men’s World Cup for the first time in 28 years after an extraordinary night at Hampden Park on Tuesday, coming from behind to beat group favourites Denmark 4-2 thanks to two stoppage-time goals that sent the Tartan Army into delirium.
The match was a rollercoaster from the first whistle. Scott McTominay gave Scotland an early lead with a spectacular overhead kick, only for Denmark to hit back in the second half. The game swung again when Lawrence Shankland restored Scotland’s advantage, but the Danes twice drew level before the unforgettable finale.
In stoppage time Kieran Tierney lashed in a stunning strike to put Scotland ahead, and moments later Kenny McLean added a breathtaking, audacious finish from around the halfway line into an empty net after Denmark’s goalkeeper had come forward — the double salvo sealing the 4-2 victory and automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
The match had its turning points well before the late drama: Denmark were reduced to ten men during the second half, and the contest featured high drama, controversy and a string of remarkable goals that will be replayed for years. For Scotland, the result ends a long World Cup drought — their last finals appearance was France 1998 and caps a turbulent qualifying campaign.
Manager Steve Clarke, who has now guided Scotland to multiple major tournaments, paid tribute to the quality of the goals and the rollercoaster of emotions of the night, praising the players’ character in a match the manager dubbed one of the most memorable of his tenure. Captain Andy Robertson was visibly emotional after the final whistle, describing the evening as hugely special for the players and supporters.
Reaction across Scotland was immediate and euphoric: scenes of celebration spilled onto the streets of Glasgow as fans celebrated qualification and a rare night of national sporting joy at Hampden Park. Denmark, who entered the evening needing only a draw, will now face the prospect of the playoffs.
English