Scotland's Epic Comeback Win Ignites Euro 2024 Qualification Dreams
Scotland manager Steve Clarke praises his team's character and determination after a thrilling comeback win against Norway The victory exemplifies the quality and spirit of the players, highlighting their commitment to representing their country
Scotland manager Steve Clarke praised the resilience and strength of his team after their remarkable late comeback in the Euro 2024 qualifying match against Norway in Oslo. In a stunning turn of events, Lyndon Dykes and substitute Kenny McLean scored crucial goals in the closing minutes of regulation time, securing a 2-1 win for the Group A leaders.
Scotland increased their lead at the top of Group A and moved eight points clear of third seeds Norway, as they managed to secure a victory despite struggling to create opportunities. The introduction of McLean in the 79th minute proved to be a timely change made by Clarke. Prior to that, Scotland had fallen behind to Haaland's penalty in the 61st minute, which was awarded after Porteous tugged at the striker's shirt.
'We never stopped believing'
Clarke said: "I was pleased with the performance, we were disciplined and passed it quite well at times.Obviously, facing a strong Norwegian team requires enduring immense pressure. However, our belief never wavered, and we continued to persevere until the very end, ultimately reaping the fruits of our labor.
This triumph speaks volumes about the character, spirit, and the exceptional talent showcased by our substitutes. One aspect I consistently emphasize about this group of players is their unwavering commitment to representing their country and their desire to excel.
"And as I look towards the sideline, I understand the necessity of making substitutions to inject a new energy into the game. I am introducing top-notch players onto the field.
"It was a matter of finding the opportune moment. After conceding the goal, I believed it was wiser to remain in the battle for a while longer, ensuring that the game didn't slip out of our grasp.
"We then had to adopt an attacking stance as it was the logical response - removing a defender and positioning John McGinn slightly higher up the field.
"We introduced Kenny to the match, Billy Gilmour also joined in, as well as Stuart Armstrong, all with the aim of injecting fresh energy and pushing forward. As a result, they played significant roles in the majority of the positive moments during the latter stages of the game."
Scotland's victory has already positioned them strongly with an impeccable record as they prepare to host Georgia on Tuesday, reaching the midpoint of the campaign.
'We have to go again'
"We have to be willing to play away from home against strong opponents and secure points if we want to secure a spot in major tournaments," Clarke emphasized. Recognizing the significance of the three points earned, he added, "Although this victory is crucial, we cannot afford to rest on our laurels. Our focus now is on the upcoming match on Tuesday, where we must capitalize on our momentum." Clarke concluded by stating, "The team is currently recuperating in ice baths, and our priority is to ensure that we secure another three points on Tuesday. I am solely focused on that game and not looking any further ahead."
Robertson: We have to qualify now
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Scotland's Andy Robertson and Norway's Martin Odegaard shake hands ahead of their Euro 2024 qualifier
Scotland captain Andrew Robertson emphasized the importance of his team securing qualification for the upcoming tournament in Germany. Commending the excellent performance of the substitutes, he acknowledged the challenge of falling behind but highlighted it as a crucial aspect of their continued progress.
The challenge was to strike the perfect balance. The camaraderie among the team is unparalleled. Achieving such unity in the realm of international football is truly exceptional.
"Our campaign could not have kicked off on a more positive note. Now, our focus lies on securing our qualification."
Dykes: Win all down to belief
Equalising goalscorer Lyndon Dykes told We:
Tonight, our performance may not have been the best. Looking back, we will acknowledge that we could have done more to create opportunities and pose a greater threat. Unfortunately, things didn't go as planned. Despite the challenges we faced, we managed to shift the momentum in our favor after I scored a goal. The substitutions made a significant impact on the game, highlighting the strength of our team.
Our unwavering belief in ourselves drives us forward, urging us to persevere. We must continue pushing ahead, hoping that when the chances arise, we will capitalize on them. The sight of the ball slowly rolling into the goal was nerve-wracking, but I felt immense relief when it finally crossed the line.
'Game against Georgia huge now'
Former Scotland goalkeeper David Marshall on We News:
"It's an incredible beginning to the qualifying phase, and the current standings are truly impressive.
Having already triumphed over Spain and secured a victory in Norway, the atmosphere at Hampden Park is bound to be electric on Tuesday night as Scotland strives to build upon this success by defeating Georgia.
"A win on Tuesday would put Scotland in a fantastic position to qualify. They'd be disappointed not to qualify from that position.
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Scotland's Lyndon Dykes and Kenny McLean at full time
"It's a huge game against Georgia now.
"The form they are in now is great. They are eight points ahead of Norway with five games to go, and Norway still have to come to Glasgow.
If they can secure victories in the upcoming matches against Georgia and Cyprus, there is every possibility that we will be on our way to Euro 2024.
Opta stats: Three from three for the first time since 2008
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Kenny McLean celebrates after making it 2-1
Solbakken: We are in a difficult position
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Norway's Martin Odegaard looks dejected at full-time
Norway manager Stale Solbakken expressed his frustration over the crucial moment in the game when his defender's interception inadvertently set up Dykes to score.
"It was an unfortunate incident for Leo Ostigard. It seems he experienced cramps in both legs simultaneously," Solbakken explained. "We cannot hold him responsible for that. If that was the case, then I must take responsibility for not substituting him."
"We are in a very difficult position."
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.
