Scotland beat Denmark 4-2 in thriller to reach World Cup

Scott McTominay gives Scotland the lead with an overhead kick in the third minute

FIFA World Cup - UEFA Qualifiers - Group C - Scotland v Denmark - Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain - Nov 18, 2025 Scotland's Scott McTominay celebrates scoring their first goal Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith

Scotland reached the World Cup finals for the first time since 1998 in thrilling fashion as stoppage time goals by Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean secured a nerve-shredding 4-2 victory over Denmark at a rocking Hampden Park on Tuesday.

When Patrick Dorgu brought 10-man Denmark level for the second time in the 81st minute it seemed the visitors would secure the point they needed to top Group C and book a place at next year's tournament in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

But Tierney struck a superb shot past Kasper Schmeichel in third minute of stoppage time and then, with the goalkeeper up in attack at the other end of the pitch, McLean launched a long-range effort into an empty goal to spark delirious scenes.

Scott McTominay gave Scotland the lead with an overhead kick in the third minute. But Rasmus Hojlund equalised with a penalty in the 57th shortly before the visitors had Rasmus Kristensen sent off. Lawrence Shankland then put the Scots back in front.