Scotland's Thrilling Triumph Inspires Andrew Robertson: Euro 2024 Qualification Now in Sight

Scotland manager Steve Clarke praised the resilience and strength of his team after their remarkable comeback in the Euro 2024 qualifying match against Norway in Oslo. The Scottish side shocked their opponents with an unexpected turnaround, securing a 2-1 victory with goals from Lyndon Dykes and substitute Kenny McLean in the dying minutes of regular time.

Scotland extended their lead at the top of Group A and moved eight points ahead of Norway, the third seeds, after struggling to pose a threat and falling behind to Erling Haaland's 61st-minute penalty. In the 79th minute, Clarke made the crucial decision to bring McLean in as one of three changes, which proved to be just in time. With Spain not playing, this victory solidified Scotland's position in the group.

'We never stopped believing'

Obviously, we faced immense pressure from a formidable Norwegian team. However, our belief never wavered. We persevered until the very end and were duly rewarded.

This remarkable display epitomizes the character, spirit, and the exceptional talent we possess within our squad. It is worth highlighting that this group of players consistently demonstrates their desire to excel for their country.

"When I look to the sidelines and realize the need for substitutions to rejuvenate the team, I am introducing high-caliber players onto the field.

"It was a matter of finding the right moment. After conceding the goal, I believed it was wiser to remain competitive for a while longer to prevent the game from slipping away from us.

"We then had to adopt a more aggressive approach, as it was expected - by substituting a defender and moving John McGinn up the field.

"We introduced Kenny, Billy Gilmour, and Stuart Armstrong to the match, providing fresh legs in an attempt to create more attacking opportunities. As a result, they played a crucial role in the majority of our positive moments in the latter stages of the game."

"Even Dominic (Hyam) makes a late appearance and successfully heads the ball a couple of times. Congratulations to Dominic on earning his first cap, and what better place to achieve it than in such a remarkable victory."

"We need to secure victories against strong opponents on their home ground in order to qualify for major tournaments. Acquiring these three points is significant, but we must remain focused and strive for more.

"All the players are currently recuperating in ice baths, and it is crucial that we maintain our momentum and secure another three points on Tuesday. This will position us favorably for the upcoming match, and I am solely focused on Tuesday's game for now."

Robertson: We have to qualify now

Meanwhile, Scotland captain Andrew Robertson insists his side now have to qualify for next summer's tournament in Germany.

"The performance of the substitute players was exceptional. Facing the challenge of falling behind is never easy, but we were aware that it was a necessary part of our progression.

Striking the right balance was our main objective. The camaraderie within the team is unparalleled, which is a rare phenomenon to achieve in the realm of international football."

"We couldn't have started this campaign better. We have to qualify now."

Dykes: Win all down to belief

"We didn't perform at our best tonight, and upon reflection, we will acknowledge the need for greater creativity, offensive prowess, and a stronger presence. Unfortunately, despite our efforts, we were unable to achieve these objectives. The match presented numerous challenges, but the momentum shifted in our favor following my equalizing goal. Additionally, the substitutions made a significant impact on the game, further highlighting our team's ability to adapt and influence the outcome."

"It's simply our unwavering belief that propels us forward, and we must persevere in hopes that when opportunities arise, they will be successfully seized. The sight of the ball slowly making its way into the goal seemed to stretch time itself, causing my heart to race with anticipation. Witnessing it finally cross the line brought immense joy and relief."

Former Scotland goalkeeper David Marshall on We News:

"It's a fantastic start to qualifying. Looking at the table it makes for great reading.

A victory on Tuesday would place Scotland in an excellent position to secure qualification, and it would be a major disappointment if they were unable to do so.

"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 manage to secure victories in their upcoming matches against Georgia and Cyprus, there should be no doubt that we will be making our way to Euro 2024.

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Scotland's Lyndon Dykes and Kenny McLean at full time

Miller: Scotland in great place to qualify automatically

The outcome was impressive and the team's performance was outstanding. There was a significant amount of defensive work, discipline, and control displayed. Although it may not have been visually appealing at times, we remained engaged and this team exudes confidence following the two initial victories. They continued to have faith, remained focused on the objective, and ultimately achieved the desired result.

I personally did not foresee this outcome as there were few chances created throughout the match, but the team seemed to possess unwavering belief. Steve's exceptional work over the years contributed to this success. This positions Scotland in an excellent position to secure automatic qualification for the Euros.

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 disappointment with the turning point of the game, attributing it to Leo Ostigard's accidental interception that allowed Dykes to score. Solbakken acknowledged that Ostigard's cramp in both legs was unfortunate and took responsibility for not substituting him earlier if that was the case.

"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.