Tense Scotland Secure Narrow Victory Over Belarus to Advance World Cup Hopes

Scotland moved a step nearer to qualifying for the 2026 World Cup after a shaky 2-1 triumph over Group C underdogs Belarus at Hampden Park on Sunday.

During a match where Steve Clarke managed the national team for a landmark 72nd occasion, forward Che Adams put the hosts in front during the 15th minute.

Under Carlos Alos, Belarus saw a second-half goal ruled out due to a foul on Scotland's Scott McTominay in the buildup, prior to the Napoli player scoring in the 84th minute from 10 metres out.

Belarus replacement Hleb Kuchko pulled one back late in stoppage time, yet Scotland held firm through the final moments to claim crucial points.

With Clarke's squad now on 10 points from 12, they gear up for an away clash with Greece and a home fixture against Denmark next month, wrapping up their bid for the tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

After defeating Greece 3-1 the previous week, Scotland lead the group pending Denmark's game versus Greece later that Sunday.

However, in a section where margins like goal difference could decide outcomes, especially given 100th-placed Belarus's prior heavy defeats to Greece and Denmark, supporters anticipated additional strikes and smoother play.

"We have secured the three points, offering a minor bit of reassurance, but the remainder puzzles me regarding our subpar showing," Clarke shared with the BBC.

McTominay shared the manager's perspective.

"We have earned six points, yet we must aim for superior levels than this," he commented.

"Personally, it is tough to express the extent of talent evident in practice sessions, which occasionally surfaces in matches, but we need to deliver more."

Scotland last appeared at a World Cup in 1998, hosted by France.

All in all, 16 teams from UEFA will earn spots in the 2026 edition. 

The 12 group leaders advance straight through, whereas the four extra places go to play-offs featuring the 12 second-placed teams.