Scotland's Epic Comeback Stuns Norway in Euro 2024 Qualifying

Scotland secured a remarkable late comeback by netting two goals within a span of two minutes, ensuring their flawless record in the Euro 2024 qualifying with a 2-1 triumph over Norway in Oslo.

Despite the scorching heat in the Norwegian capital, Scotland exhibited a resilient defensive display. However, their efforts were eventually overcome when Erling Haaland, recently basking in the glory of Manchester City's treble victory, was fouled by Ryan Porteous inside the penalty box. Haaland dusted himself off and converted the penalty kick, breaking the deadlock in the 61st minute.

Norway seemed poised for a significant victory, but Scotland completely turned the game around in a breathtaking manner, scoring two goals within a span of two minutes. Taking advantage of a moment of uncertainty in the Norwegian defense, Lyndon Dykes equalized, and in the 89th minute, Kenny McLean calmly placed the ball into the net, propelling Scotland to a 2-1 lead and igniting jubilant celebrations throughout the team.

The victory for Steve Clarke's side marks their third consecutive win, widening the gap to eight points from Norway, who remain in fourth place in Group A. With five more games left, Scotland prepares to face Georgia at Hampden Park on Tuesday.

In pictures: Scotland's stunning comeback

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Erling Haaland's penalty had Norway on course for victory

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Dykes makes it 1-1

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Kenny McLean celebrates after making it 2-1

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McLean's goal sparked wild celebrations from Scotland

How Scotland stunned Norway...

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Scotland's goal scorers, Dykes and McLean, celebrated their victory at full-time. However, in the first half, Norway's forward, Alexander Sorloth, had the best opportunity to score but unfortunately sent a free header straight at Angus Gunn from eight yards.

Scotland's possession was shaky in the first 20 minutes, but they eventually found their rhythm. Andy Robertson made two impressive runs and crosses, although they failed to result in any significant opportunities. Similarly, John McGinn's attempt on goal was swiftly shut down after Ryan Christie's cross.

Clarke's team utilized a defensive formation with five players at the back when they were not in possession of the ball. They also aimed to maintain a high defensive line. In the first half, there was one instance when Haaland received the ball in a favorable position. However, Callum McGregor swiftly retreated to execute a tackle inside the penalty box.

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Haaland and tangles with Scotland's John McGinn

The striker could have had a much better opportunity if he hadn't been brought down by Jack Hendry while starting a pursuit for a long ball. Despite being the last defender, Hendry only received a yellow card as the foul occurred on the halfway line.

The Slovenian referee displayed a stricter approach when issuing bookings to McGinn and Kieran Tierney on both sides of half-time.

Hendry managed to avoid any penalty-box grappling with Haaland, which went unnoticed by the striker himself, unlike some of his teammates. Nevertheless, it didn't take long for Haaland to earn a penalty. As he was about to make a move towards Sorloth's cross, Porteous grabbed his shirt, causing Haaland to go down. The referee swiftly awarded a spot-kick in response.

Porteous was shown a yellow card as a consequence, rendering him ineligible for the upcoming match against Georgia on Tuesday.

Despite Gunn's valiant effort and correct dive, he was unable to save the powerful shot from Haaland. This goal proved crucial for Haaland, as it not only marked his second goal in nine club games but also brought his total for the season, including both club and country appearances, to an impressive 59 goals.

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Scotland suffered a blow when Tierney had to leave the field due to injury, being replaced by Liam Cooper. However, their attempts to close the gap on Norway's lead were unsuccessful until Clarke decided to make a strategic change in the 79th minute, switching to a back four formation. McLean, Stuart Armstrong, and Billy Gilmour were subsequently introduced to the game.

Haaland went off in the 84th minute and Scotland soon stunned the hosts and delighted their travelling fans with their late double whammy.

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Norway's Martin Odegaard looks dejected at full-time

'Game against Georgia huge now'

Former Scotland goalkeeper David Marshall on We News:

Scotland's qualifying campaign has gotten off to a remarkable start. The current standings make for an exhilarating read, with victories over Spain and Norway already under their belt. Anticipation is high for Tuesday night's match at Hampden Park, as Scotland aims to build upon this success by securing another win against Georgia.

"A win on Tuesday would put Scotland in a fantastic position to qualify. They'd be disappointed not to qualify from that position.

"It's a huge game against Georgia now.

Hopefully, by the time Norway comes to Glasgow for the final game of the campaign, our team will have already secured their victory. Presently, they are in a remarkable position, leading by eight points with only five games remaining.

"If they can go and win the next two games against Georgia and Cyprus then I see no reason why we won't be heading to Euro 2024."

Opta stats: Three from three for the first time since 2008

What's next

Scotland's next Euro 2024 qualifier is against Georgia at Hampden Park on Tuesday night. Kick-off 7.45pm.

Up next for Norway is another home game against Cyprus, also on Tuesday; kick-off 7.45pm.