ADAMS & EVE IT
Che and John grab home tie in play-off lottery
SIX World Cup qualifying wins in a row – and Scotland will fear no one in the play-offs.
The Tartan Army’s victory, thanks to John Souttar’s header and Che Adams’ well-taken late strike, secured seeded status in the play-offs – and a one-off clash at Hampden Park in March.
It doesn’t get much better than this on their journey to Qatar.
They claimed the scalp of the Euro 2020 semi-finalists and ruined Denmark’s previously perfect Group F record of nine wins, with one of the best first-half displays in many a year.
It’s just a pity their next game is four months away, such is their improvement and momentum.
They produced an excellent allround display – tenacious, hungry and moving the ball quickly.
A brilliant early counter-attack set the tone and had the Danes on the back foot.
Andy Robertson played in Adams to shoot, which was snuffed out by a desperate block from Simon Kjaer.
Scotland’s set-pieces caused the under-strength Danes big problems and when John Mcginn pinged a corner to the back post, Leeds defender Liam Cooper headed back across goal. Hearts defender John Souttar, recalled for the first time in three years, was on the spot six yards out to head home with 35 minutes played.
Hampden Park erupted and rarely has there been such optimism from the Tartan Army.
With five starting players a yellow card away from suspension Scotland were on a disciplinary tightrope, making their controlled passion all the more impressive.
Skipper Robertson, Mcginn, Billy Gilmour, Adams, Stephen O’donnell – plus sub Kevin Nisbet – negotiated the danger and will be available, injury permitting, in March.
The visitors were better after the break, Andreas Cornelius’ header forcing a reflex save from Craig Gordon.
It took until the 86th minute for the game to be sealed.
Sub Stuart Armstrong sent Southampton striker Adams clear on goal and he curled home.