Scotland captain Andy Robertson admitted that ahead of Tuesday’s win against Denmark, he reflected on the World Cup dreams he had once shared with ex-Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota.
Portuguese forward Diogo Jota and brother Andre Silva lost their lives in a tragic car accident in the Spanish province of Zamora in July.
Scotland headed into Tuesday night’s clash at Hampden Park with the knowledge that a victory would seal their spot in the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 1998.
The Danes seemed to be heading towards next year’s tournament with the scoreline at 2-2 going into stoppage-time, but the Tartan Army netted twice in four minutes to seal victory.
“I think I’ve hidden it well, but I’ve been in bits”, Robertson said after the win.
“I knew with the age that I am at, this will be my last chance of a World Cup and I couldn’t get my mate Diogo Jota out of my head today.
“We spoke so much together about the World Cup. He missed out in Qatar [2022] because of an injury and I had never qualified”, he added.
“We always discussed what it would be like going to this World Cup, but I know he will be smiling over me tonight.”
Scott McTominay opened the scoring with an exquisite bicycle kick in the third minute, before Rasmus Hojlund equalized for Denmark from the penalty spot.
Lawrence Shankland put Scotland back in front once more, before Patrick Dorgu leveled matters in the 81st minute.
However, the home side were not to be denied as Kieran Tierney produced a stunning finish into the net in stoppage time to put his side back in the lead.
Kenny McLean then sealed a dramatic win with the last kick of the game, scoring from the halfway line to complete a 4-2 win.
“I just couldn’t get him out of my head the whole day, so I was in a bit of trouble in my room earlier”, Robertson revealed.
“I think I hid it well from the boys, but I am just so glad that it has ended up this way.”
Scotland have qualified for a first World Cup tournament in 27 years and will find out their opponents when the draw takes place on the 5th of December.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
