Steve Clarke urges Scotland fans to drive team on in World Cup finals push
GLASGOW, Scotland – Scotland manager Steve Clarke urged supporters to rally behind the team ahead of Tuesday’s decisive World Cup qualifier against Denmark, with top spot in Group C still within reach despite a 3-2 defeat in Greece.
Scotland’s loss in Piraeus left them needing leaders Denmark to drop points to keep automatic qualification alive. That scenario unfolded unexpectedly on Saturday when Denmark surrendered a second-half lead and were held to a 2-2 draw by bottom-placed Belarus in Copenhagen. The result ensured Scotland can overtake the Danes with a win at Hampden Park.
Clarke’s side nearly secured the point they required in Greece to remain fully in control, recovering from three goals down through strikes from Ben Gannon-Doak and Ryan Christie. Scott McTominay was denied a late equaliser by an outstanding save before the squad endured a tense wait for Denmark’s result to be confirmed.
Clarke said the late fightback in Piraeus provided evidence of renewed momentum and called on the home crowd to create a unified atmosphere from the opening whistle on Tuesday night.
“Although we lost the game, we finished strongly, and we need to bring that into Tuesday with the help of a full and positive Hampden,” Clarke said. “We have a great group of players, but we’re going to need backing from the first minute.”
Scotland have faced scrutiny from sections of their own support during this campaign, including boos at half-time in the home win over Greece and again following a 2-1 victory against Belarus. Clarke appealed for unwavering support in what he described as one of the most significant fixtures of his tenure.
“One of my favourite messages to the players is to play with the anticipation of success, not the fear of failure,” he said. “I’m asking the Hampden crowd to take the same approach. In the difficult moments, we need them with us. If we get that, I’m confident we can achieve something special.”
Scotland are chasing their first World Cup appearance since 1998 and retain the safety net of a play-off place regardless of Tuesday’s outcome. Clarke, who has already led the nation to two European Championship finals, said the squad’s progress has created a succession of high-stakes matches.
“This group have given their country so many big nights,” he said. “Tuesday will be another, and hopefully it brings another big result.”
The match against Denmark will determine whether Scotland reach the World Cup finals automatically or must navigate the play-offs, with Clarke insisting the team and supporters can “inspire each other” in their final push.