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Scotland ride luck to keep World Cup dreams alive
The Independent
|October 13, 2025
Scotland escaped embarrassment as they notched an unconvincing 2-1 win over Group C makeweights Belarus to take another step towards the 2026 World Cup finals.
On a night Steve Clarke took charge of the national side for a record-breaking 72nd time, striker Che Adams fired the home team ahead after 15 minutes to give the Scots the interval lead.
Carlos Alos's side had a goal disallowed in the second half for a foul on Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay in the buildup before the Napoli star struck in the 84th minute with a finish from 10 yards.
Belarus substitute Hleb Kuchko reduced the deficit in the sixth minute of added time and in a qualification section that might come down to goal difference - Belarus lost by five to Greece and six to Denmark - the Tartan Army had hoped for more goals and a more fluid performance.Nevertheless, the Scots have 10 points from 12 as they prepare to travel to Greece and host Denmark next month to conclude the quickfire qualification campaign.
This story is from the October 13, 2025 edition of The Independent.
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