From a rousing rendition of “Flower of Scotland” to Scott McTominay’s breathtaking overhead kick, the strategic brilliance of Steve Clarke, Lawrence Shankland’s clinical finish, Kieran Tierney’s stunning long-range strike, and Kenny McLean’s audacious lob from his own half—Scotland’s fans woke up today with the most exhilarating of hangovers.
William: That 90 minutes was the perfect remedy for 28 years of heartache—the late concessions against Belgium in 2001 and Italy in 2007, the disheartening performances, and that infamous halfway line lob from the Czechs at the Euros. All of those memories faded away during what was undoubtedly the most thrilling match I’ve witnessed in years. Just thinking about the anthem brings a lump to my throat.
John: It’s an absolutely brilliant feeling to be heading to the World Cup as the winners of our group. Steve Clarke is a maestro at bringing out the best in our players. Today feels just as euphoric as it did last night.
Euan: Four incredible goals! I’ve never seen Scotland at a World Cup, and honestly, I’m just proud of the boys no matter how they fare. McTominay’s goal will be etched in my memory forever, eclipsing even the others.
Alan: I still can’t believe it. Scotland rarely plays like this. We don’t typically score when it counts—much less manage two or three goals. Luck has never been on our side, and yet last night we found ourselves executing overhead kicks with perfection. Eight minutes of stoppage time usually invites a late adversary strike, but not this time. I’m crying and laughing in disbelief. What a night!
Chris: It took three absolute screamers, but we finally did it! No longer just the “glorious failures,” we’re off to the World Cup at long last. Shankland finally got his shot and posed a bigger threat than [Che] Adams and [Lyndon] Dykes—he absolutely must start for Scotland; he’s a goal-scoring machine.
Empty: What a result! Three magnificent goals worthy of winning any match. Now, we can dare to dream of earning enough to travel to the Americas and join the Tartan Army once more. I was in Spain ’82 and Italy ’90; I’d love to have one last “hurrah.”
Alan: I was in France ’98, and it was truly special. We’ve waited so long for this moment; it’s exceptional and will uplift the entire nation—everyone will ride this high until we lift the World Cup.
