Hampden Park erupted on Tuesday night as Scotland secured their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Denmark 4-2 in a thrilling match that marked their first World Cup qualification since 1998. The hero of the hour was Kieran Tierney, whose stunning late goal sent the Tartan Army into raptures.
The victory was hard-earned, with Scotland needing a win against the Danes to secure automatic qualification. The game was a rollercoaster, featuring a remarkable bicycle kick from Scott McTominay in the opening minutes, which sent the home crowd into a frenzy. Denmark, however, proved resilient, with Rasmus Højlund equalizing from the penalty spot in the second half. The match swung back in Scotland's favor when Rasmus Kristensen received a second yellow card. Substitute Lawrence Shankland then put Scotland ahead, only for Patrick Dorgu to level the score again.
With the game tied at 2-2 and heading into stoppage time, Scotland's World Cup dreams hung in the balance. That's when Kieran Tierney stepped up, unleashing a spectacular curling shot from 25 yards that found the back of the net. The stadium exploded in celebration as Tierney's goal put Scotland ahead 3-2. Kenny McLean then sealed the victory with a long-range chip over the goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, making it 4-2.
"It's surreal," Tierney said of his game-winning goal. "I've never really scored a goal just as important as that". The 28-year-old Celtic left-back has faced his share of adversity, battling injuries that have kept him out of crucial games, including the last two European Championships. "It's very special because the last few years, everybody probably knows, I've been through a lot with different injuries, with different things," he acknowledged.
Despite these setbacks, Tierney has persevered, and his crucial contribution on Tuesday night was a testament to his resilience. "I've just kept trying to work hard and give my best and go through the bad things and just keep grinding," he said. "I've done that and moments like that make it all worth it".
Scotland manager Steve Clarke praised Tierney's performance and his overall contribution to the team. "Scott scored the best overhead kick I've ever seen... and it might not be the best goal of the night," Clarke said. Captain Andy Robertson, speaking to the BBC, described the game as "one of the craziest games". "We put the country through it… but I'm sure it was worth it," Robertson added.
The victory sparked scenes of jubilation across Scotland, with fans celebrating the end of a 27-year wait to see their team compete on the world's biggest stage. The World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico next summer promises to be a momentous occasion for Scottish football. For Kieran Tierney, the night was particularly special, a "very special" moment that validated his hard work and dedication.
