Giornale Roma - Sensational Scotland strike late to seal World Cup place

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Sensational Scotland strike late to seal World Cup place
Sensational Scotland strike late to seal World Cup place / Photo: ANDY BUCHANAN - AFP

Sensational Scotland strike late to seal World Cup place

Scotland scored two dramatic stoppage-time goals to beat 10-man Denmark 4-2 on Tuesday, booking their place at the World Cup finals for the first time since 1998.

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On a crackling night in Glasgow, substitute Kieran Tierney found the net from outside the box to restore the home side's lead in the 93rd minute.

But there was still time for a sensational fourth from fellow substitute Kenny McLean, who lifted the ball over Denmark goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel from the halfway line.

It means Steve Clarke's men will be at next year's World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States while Denmark, who only needed a draw to top Group C, face the lottery of the play-offs.

"That just sums up this squad," captain Andy Robertson told the BBC. "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.

"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."

On a night of high emotion at Hampden Park, Scotland took the lead in just the third minute courtesy of a phenomenal Scott McTominay overhead kick.

The Danes quickly settled and dominated possession for the rest of the half but could not find the net.

However, Rasmus Hojlund levelled from the penalty spot in the 57th minute after a lengthy VAR check ruled that Robertson had fouled Gustav Isaksen.

Four minutes later the Danes were down to 10 men when Rasmus Kristensen was harshly handed a second booking after being adjudged to have brought down John McGinn.

The Scots were back in front when Lawrence Shankland turned in a corner from Lewis Ferguson in the 78th minute but the lead lasted just four minutes before Manchester United defender Patrick Dorgu side-footed the ball home for a second equaliser.

But Scotland were still not done.

Tierney kept his cool from distance and then McLean made the win certain.

Scotland finish as Group C winners with 13 points, two clear of Denmark.

E.Barbieri--GdR