Scotland beat Denmark 4-2, McTominay opened up World Cup ticket
Scott McTominay's third-minute wonder goal sealed a 4-2 win over Denmark at Hampden Park, sealing Scotland's place at the 2026 World Cup.
Scotland officially returned to the World Cup after 28 years with a 4-2 win over Denmark at Hampden Park. Scott McTominay opened the scoring in the 3rd minute with a spectacular overhead kick, setting the stage for an explosive night and a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
Masterpiece in the 3rd minute: the pivot moment
In a suffocating atmosphere in Glasgow, McTominay received the ball from Ben Doak's cross on the right, turned his back to goal and was closely marked. He jumped up and performed a perfect bicycle kick, beating Kasper Schmeichel. Coach Steve Clarke called it "the best overhead kick" he had ever seen. The early goal not only broke the ice but also relieved the pressure on a team that had just suffered a defeat to Greece and had to wait for the results of their opponents.
Development and rhythm: fiery duo
The opening goal gave Scotland the confidence to step up the tempo of the game, ready to play an attacking game against Denmark. The match saw more explosive moments: Kieran Tierney's curling shot and Kenny McLean's lob from midfield in injury time. Despite Ben Doak leaving the field injured and Denmark increasing the pressure, Scotland still maintained their intensity to complete a 4-2 victory.
Tactical angle: McTominay – the engine in midfield
In addition to his opening goal, McTominay maintained a high level of pressing and tackling throughout the game, acting as a “perpetual engine” in midfield. His ability to step into space at the right time, supporting both defence and attack, helped Scotland balance the game and break through when needed. At international level, he has become the soul of midfield, scoring 13 international goals, directly contributing to the success under Steve Clarke.
From Old Trafford to Napoli: the transformation
Leaving Manchester United in 2024, McTominay rediscovered his passion for football at Napoli and rose to stardom. Last season’s Serie A Player of the Year award was a testament to his remarkable progress. At Hampden Park, that form translated into tangible impact: a statement goal, coupled with energy and discipline that kept his teammates on their toes.
Reactions and Emotions
It wasn’t just the stadium that exploded, with Andy Murray also sending in his praise: “McTominay, you’re a little dancer!” – a metaphor for the grace of a difficult move. The moment was more than a beautiful goal; it rekindled the faith of a generation, on a night that has been described as one of the most magical in Scottish football history.
Impact: World Cup tickets and star status
A 4-2 win over Denmark sealed Scotland's place in the 2026 World Cup, ending a 28-year wait. For McTominay, this was a confirmation of his status as one of Europe's top midfielders at the moment: from a doubter at Old Trafford to a symbol of the spirit and expertise of the "Tartan Army".
The 2026 World Cup will be the stage for McTominay to continue his unfinished story. But that overhead kick at Hampden Park – in the right time, place and with the right emotion – defined a night to remember.
