The Scottish male football team have secured their place in the 2026 World Cup – the first time they have qualified since 1998.
Scotland won last night’s match against Denmark 4-2 in dramatic fashion.
The goal scorers included Scott McTominay, Lawrence Shankland, Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean.
The final two goals happened in stoppage time, with Tierney scoring from outside of the box and McLean shooting from the halfway line to secure the victory.
Scotland manager Steve Clarke remarked on the engagement of the crowd during last night’s press conference with Sky Sports.
He said: “The crowd were fantastic … We gave them a great start with Scott McTominay’s goal – that got them excited and engaged in the game – but even when the penalty went in the crowd was behind us again.
“Everybody was still in the stadium. Nobody left because they could smell magic.”
Edinburgh residents who don’t usually follow football – Scottish or otherwise – have sensed how monumental the win is for the nation.
Andrew said: “It’s great great news for the country really, it’s put the country on a bit of a high.”
Jonah, who is traditionally an England supporter, acknowledged the positivity in the public’s reaction – a difference from usual match emotions.
He said: “You can tell it’s just joy. You know with a lot of football you can get sort of like quite aggressive stuff like there’s that whole culture.
“It’s the first time since 1998, isn’t it? That’s fantastic. And it’s just like… I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t be happy for it.”
Whilst acknowledging the achievement of Scotland’s win, Donald, had a different perspective of the nature of winning.
He said: “Yeah, it’s great [that they won]. But I mean, people win things. They win wars, they win football, they win basketball, they win the Olympics. What does that actually mean?”
Regardless of this, the buzz of Scotland’s success was felt throughout the capital city, with dogs even dressed in support.
First Minister John Swinney expressed his delight at the result on X.
He wrote: “Fabulously well done. Such a joy to watch such an amazing, spirited performance.”
