Spanish Victory Secures Scotland's Euro 2024 Qualification in Thrilling Norway Clash

Scotland secured a spot in Euro 2024 as Spain prevented Norway from winning, thus ensuring that Steve Clarke's team cannot be surpassed by their Group A competitors. With an impressive record of five victories in their first six matches, Scotland solely relied on Spain to secure at least a draw in Oslo to eliminate Norway, ensuring they would not reach a maximum of 14 points and consequently fail to secure a top-two position.

After triumphing over Scotland in Seville, Spain continued their winning streak with a 1-0 victory, placing them at the top of Group A, ahead of Scotland based on goal difference.

In the coming weeks, Scotland will travel to Georgia and then return home to face Norway in their last qualifying matches. Meanwhile, Spain will be heading to Cyprus and will conclude their qualification campaign by playing at home against Georgia.

Having ended a 22-year wait to qualify for a major finals at Euro 2020 - head coach Steve Clarke has now led Scotland to back-to-back European Championships.

More to follow.

How Scotland qualified for Euro 2024

Image:

Scotland have qualified for back-to-back European Championships under Steve Clarke

Scotland began their campaign with a remarkable performance, securing consecutive victories. They first triumphed over Cyprus and then, in a splendid display, Scott McTominay's brace led them to an impressive triumph over Spain on their home turf in March. Their winning streak continued with a hard-fought away triumph against Norway, which was followed by a rain-soaked victory over Georgia at Hampden Park in June, celebrated by Clarke's side.

Scotland maintained their winning streak with a convincing 3-0 triumph over Cyprus in Larnaca, bringing their total points to 15. Although their celebrations were momentarily halted by a loss to Spain in Seville, the Tartan Army can now look forward to booking flights and heading to Germany next summer, as Norway was unable to defeat Spain in Oslo.

McAllister: Clarke has created a club mentality

Gary McAllister - who captained Scotland at Euro 96 - has praised the job head coach Clarke has done since taking over in 2019.

"Clarke seems to have fostered a supportive club environment where everyone is enthusiastic about attending and participating," he noted. "This was an issue in the past, with numerous injuries and frequent absences."

Everyone wants to be a part of Scotland's success on the field. They not only accumulate points, but their performance level is exceptionally high. Clarke is building something similar to what Craig Brown achieved. He has developed a distinct style, with a strong midfield that can successfully challenge top-notch opponents.

"We're blessed in the middle of the pitch and it's always strange to see the criticism Scott McTominay takes when he features from Manchester United.

Image:

McAllister has praised Scotland's midfielders after an impressive qualifying campaign

"He excels in his performance for Scotland, and I can't help but notice his positive contribution when he plays for United as well. Unfortunately, he seems to be somewhat unfairly criticized at Manchester United, perhaps because he is not considered a trendy player and represents Scotland. However, if he continues to persevere, I believe he will prove to be a remarkable player. My admiration for him remains unwavering."

I had a brief encounter with John McGinn while at Aston Villa. He possesses innate leadership qualities and has embraced this role not only with the national team but also by consistently demonstrating his ability to both score and create goals.

Therefore, he holds great significance for both Steve Clarke and Callum McGregor, as they acknowledge his immense talent as a footballer, with McGregor being an exceptional player himself at Celtic.

Scotland's upcoming fixtures

November 16: Georgia (a), Euro 2024 qualifier, kick-off 5pm

November 19: Norway (h), Euro 2024 qualifier, kick-off 7.45pm