In a way, it’s a testament to Steve Clarke’s impressive leadership that Scotland finds itself on the cusp of a World Cup berth, barely a whisper away from securing a spot in the tournament set to unfold next summer across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Since the poignant departure of the late, great Craig Brown from the pitch in Saint-Étienne in the summer of 1998, Scotland has seen six different managers struggle to propel the national team into the limelight of a major tournament.
Countless play-offs came and went, as did the careers of many talented players who deserved far more recognition than they received.
Then, in 2019, Steven Clarke emerged on the scene. A man who thrived at Kilmarnock in his beloved Ayrshire, Clarke brought with him a wealth of experience from his successful career both on and off the pitch in England. Under his stewardship, the national team transformed its fortunes, rebounding from a disappointing loss in Kazakhstan to making consecutive appearances at the Euros.
Clarke blended Brown’s resilience with a fresh wave of talent and a string of impressive results. Victories over Spain at Hampden and Norway in their own backyard, alongside a gripping penalty shootout triumph against Serbia five years ago, all marked Scotland’s return to relevance. Even Croatia was left stunned in Glasgow.
With a roster that includes the likes of Scott McTominay, John McGinn, Billy Gilmour, and Andy Robertson—players both seasoned and new—Scotland has emerged from the shadows with a reputation that commands respect.
Yet, such ascension is not without its scrutiny. Some critiques are harsh, while others are justifiably deserved.
Clarke’s team faced a moment of collapse in the 2022 play-off semi-final against Ukraine, reminiscent of this current juncture, where the stakes were incredibly high.
Two Euros have slipped past without Scotland being able to make a mark, with a mere three goals scored in six matches.
These instances serve as cautionary tales but, more importantly, should ignite motivation for the challenges that lie ahead—though perhaps that motivation is already present.
The crux of the matter is this: Scotland has often failed to seize the opportunities it has painstakingly crafted. Moments have slipped through their fingers.
On Tuesday, this group stands at a pivotal juncture, with the chance to carve their name in World Cup history—no strings attached, no “what-ifs.”
Denmark, having graced five of the last seven World Cups, also harbors vulnerabilities, much like their hosts.
A weakness was exposed by Belarus, and it’s crucial that Scotland capitalizes on it. At the same time, the second half of Scotland’s recent display against Greece showcased a level of intensity that must be present from the start this time around.
There’s a palpable sense that Scotland’s destiny on Tuesday hinges not on the Danes’ performance but rather on what Clarke’s squad can summon from within themselves.
The quality is undoubtedly present. The incentive is clear. The opportunity lies before them.
Now, we await to see if they possess the courage to seize it.
