Scotland Clinches World Cup 2026 Berth in Thrilling 4-2 Victory over Denmark
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – November 18, 2023 – Scotland secured direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup tonight with a dramatic 4-2 win over Denmark at hampden Park. The victory guarantees the Scots a place in the final tournament, despite a previous loss to Greece.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions for both sides. Scotland opened the scoring in just the third minute with a stunning scissors kick from Scott McTominay, assisted by Ben Doak.However, Denmark’s Rasmus Højlund equalized in the 57th minute, converting a penalty after a foul on Gustav Isaksen.
Denmark were reduced to ten men in the 67th minute following a second yellow card for Rasmus Kristensen. Scotland capitalized quickly, with Lawrence Shankland scoring in the 78th minute, only for Patrick Dorgu to level the score again just four minutes later.
The decisive moments came late in the game. Kieran Tierney scored a crucial goal in the 90+3rd minute, and Kenny McLean added a final goal in the 90+8th minute, sealing Scotland’s place at the World Cup.
The result was confirmed after Scotland learned that Denmark had only drawn with Belarus, removing any lingering doubt about their qualification.
This marks a significant achievement for Scotland, returning them to the World Cup stage after a prolonged absence.The victory was fueled by the passionate support of the home crowd at Hampden Park, singing the national anthem “Flower of Scotland.”
Scoring Summary:
* Scotland: Scott McTominay (3′), Lawrence Shankland (78′), Kieran Tierney (90+3′), Kenny McLean (90+8′)
* Denmark: Rasmus Højlund (pen. 57′), Patrick Dorgu (81′)
