Alex MacQuoid
Scotland’s World Cup Dream Alive as McGinn Urges Team to Seize Opportunity
Scotland finds itself on the brink of a historic moment, with a chance to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1998. The stage is set for a thrilling showdown against Denmark at Hampden Park on Tuesday, November 18, with kickoff at 19:45 GMT.
The Scots, fueled by a remarkable comeback against Greece on Saturday, are determined not to let this opportunity slip away. Despite falling 3-0 down, they rallied to score twice, with Ben Gannon-Doak netting the crucial goal, though ultimately losing 3-2. This effort has set the stage for a decisive clash with Denmark.
John McGinn, who set up the goal in Greece, emphasized the significance of the upcoming match. “The aim of tonight was to make sure we had a cup final on Tuesday, and we have it, in strange circumstances,” McGinn told BBC Scotland. “So this opportunity, we can’t let it go.”
McGinn acknowledged that the team’s performance in the final 25 minutes against Greece was a testament to their character and resilience. “The manager said the last 20, 30 minutes was everything that we’ve shown as a group over the past five, six years which got us some success, which got us to tournaments – direct, full of energy, brave, creating chances,” he explained.
The Aston Villa captain also reflected on the team’s ability to bounce back from adversity. “What an effort we put in towards the end. It feels a bit weird, the feeling of relief that Denmark didn’t win gives us an opportunity for a cup final on Tuesday night.”
Aaron Hickey, who was substituted in the final 15 minutes, shared his perspective on the emotional rollercoaster of the match. “Just having to wait and see,” said the Brentford defender. “But when you’re on the pitch, you’re just focusing on the game.”
Hickey emphasized the importance of starting strong in the upcoming match. “We need to start the match better, right from the first whistle to the end. Just give it everything. Hopefully, the Tartan Army can get behind us and go with that full momentum into the game and just put the pressure on them.”
Craig Gordon, the experienced goalkeeper, believed the game in Piraeus “could have ended any score”, with Greece‘s Tasos Bakasetas sent off for a second booking near the end. “You heard the noise there from the Tartan Army,” said the 42-year-old. “They’ve got a cup final on Tuesday night.”
Gordon praised the team’s performance in the final 20 minutes, highlighting their ability to rediscover their best form. “That’s the best we’ve played for a few games now. We kind of rediscovered that in the last 20 minutes, which was nice to know that’s still in there.”
As the anticipation builds, the Tartan Army and the entire nation are rallying behind the team, hoping to witness a historic qualification for the World Cup.