Scotland’s World Cup Qualifying Journey: A Critical Clash with Denmark Ahead

**Scotland vs. Greece Highlights**

**World Cup Qualifying: Scotland vs. Denmark**
**Venue:** Hampden Park, Glasgow
**Date:** Tuesday, 18 November
**Time:** 19:45 GMT

**Coverage:** Watch live on BBC Scotland, BBC Two & iPlayer; listen on BBC Radio Scotland, BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio Nan Gaidheal, and Sounds; follow live text commentary on the BBC Sport website and app.

Midfielder John McGinn has expressed that Scotland “can’t let go” of the chance to qualify for their first men’s World Cup since 1998. McGinn played a pivotal role in setting up Ben Gannon-Doak’s goal during Scotland’s valiant comeback from a three-goal deficit, ultimately losing 3-2 to Greece on Saturday.

Despite the defeat, a 2-2 draw between Belarus and Denmark means that the Danes are just one point ahead of Steve Clarke’s squad heading into the decisive final qualifier at Hampden Park. A victory for Scotland would secure a top finish in the group and a place in next summer’s finals, while a draw or loss would lead to the play-offs.

“The aim of tonight was to ensure we have a cup final on Tuesday, and we do, albeit under strange circumstances,” McGinn told BBC Scotland. “This opportunity is one we cannot afford to let slip away.”

Reflecting on the match, McGinn noted that it “shouldn’t have taken us to be 3-0 down” before the team produced a spirited performance in the final 25 minutes. He remarked, “The last 20 to 30 minutes reflected everything we’ve demonstrated over the past few years—direct, energetic, brave play that creates chances.”

The Aston Villa captain acknowledged the team’s late effort, feeling relieved that Denmark did not win, thus granting Scotland a chance for a significant match on Tuesday night.

Aaron Hickey, who was substituted late in the game, shared that it was “for sure” harder to be on the sidelines than on the pitch. “Just waiting and seeing can be stressful. However, when you’re on the field, your focus is entirely on the game,” said the Brentford defender.

Hickey emphasized the importance of starting strong against Denmark: “We need to give our all from the first whistle. Hopefully, the Tartan Army can rally behind us, providing the momentum we need to apply pressure on the opposition.”

Goalkeeper Craig Gordon noted that the match in Piraeus “could have ended with any score,” especially after Greek player Tasos Bakasetas received a red card late in the game. “The noise from the Tartan Army was incredible. We have a cup final on Tuesday night ahead of us,” he stated.

“This was the best we’ve performed in recent matches. We rediscovered our form during the last 20 minutes, affirming that our potential is still within us. It’s a good feeling to take that confidence into Tuesday’s match.”