Bicycle kick and goal from halfway qualifies Scotland for first World Cup since 1998

2 weeks ago 3

By Reuters

November 19, 2025 — 9.59am

Scotland has qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 1998 in thrilling fashion as a stoppage time goal from halfway and a bicycle kick goal earlier in the match helped secured a nerve-shredding 4-2 victory over Denmark in Glasgow.

When Patrick Dorgu brought 10-man Denmark level at a rocking Hampden Park for the second time in the 81st minute it seemed the visitors would secure the point they needed to top Group C and book a place at next year’s tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

But Kieran Tierney struck a superb shot past Kasper Schmeichel in third minute of stoppage time and then, with the goalkeeper up in attack at the other end of the pitch, Kenny McLean launched a long-range effort into an empty goal to spark delirious scenes.

Scott McTominay gave Scotland the lead with an overhead kick in the third minute. But Rasmus Hojlund equalised with a penalty in the 57th shortly before the visitors had Rasmus Kristensen sent off. Lawrence Shankland then put the Scots back in front.

Scotland’s Scott McTominay scores the opening goal for Scotland with a bicycle kick.

Meanwhile, Iraq are one step closer to their first World Cup since 1986 – their first and only appearance – after they scored a penalty 17 minutes into stoppage time to claim a dramatic 2-1 home win over the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday.

The victory means Iraq secure a 3-2 aggregate playoff victory over their neighbours that keeps the country’s World Cup qualification dream alive.

Amir Al-Ammari struck from the spot to take former Socceroos coach Graham Arnold’s side into March’s intercontinental playoffs in front of a packed Basra International Stadium in Iraq.

The winner came after substitute Mohanad Ali had headed in a 66th-minute equaliser for the Iraqis, who had gone behind to Caio Lucas’ opener 14 minutes earlier.

Iraq will now join five other teams in the playoffs with two spots at the finals available.

Reuters