Greece Defeat Scotland 3-2 in Dramatic World Cup 2026 Qualifier
Athens, Greece – November 15, 2025 – Greece secured a narrow 3-2 victory over Scotland in a thrilling World Cup 2026 qualifier tonight, leaving Scotland’s hopes of automatic qualification hanging in the balance. The match, played in Athens, saw a late surge from Scotland nearly snatch a draw, but goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos proved decisive in stoppage time.
This result considerably impacts scotland’s pathway to the 2026 World Cup. While not eliminating them, it complicates their qualification prospects, possibly forcing them into a playoff scenario.Greece, meanwhile, strengthens their position in the qualifying group, moving closer to securing a coveted spot in the expanded 48-team tournament. The stakes were high for both nations, with a win crucial for solidifying their chances of reaching the first World cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Scotland pressed for a late equaliser as the clock ticked past 90 minutes, with four minutes of added time awarded. John McGinn almost found a tap-in opportunity in the 90+2nd minute, but Vlachodimos intervened with a crucial deflection.
In the final moments of the match, Vlachodimos secured the win for Greece by claiming the ball, effectively ending Scotland’s attacking efforts in the 90+5th minute. A free-kick from the right wing in the 90+4th minute represented one last opportunity for Scotland, but ultimately proved unsuccessful.
