In a thrilling encounter in Tbilisi, Scotland’s Euro 2024 qualifying campaign took another twist as Lawrence Shankland’s stoppage-time header secured a crucial point against Georgia. This dramatic equalizer not only prevented Scotland’s manager, Steve Clarke, from suffering a fourth consecutive defeat but also breathed life into their slim hopes of topping their qualifying group.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was the star of the show for Georgia, putting them ahead twice in the match. His first goal, a clinical finish after a low ball from Otar Kakabadze, showcased his goal-scoring prowess. The Napoli winger then doubled his tally with a precise low shot, leaving Scotland’s goalkeeper, Zander Clark, with little chance.
Scotland, who had already secured their place in Euro 2024, struggled to find their attacking rhythm for most of the game. The equalizer came through Scott McTominay, who netted his seventh goal of the qualifying campaign with a deflected shot from the edge of the box. However, it was Lawrence Shankland who emerged as the hero, rising at the back post to head home Stuart Armstrong’s cross and salvage a crucial point for his team.
This result leaves Scotland in a precarious position, as they now need to beat Norway in their final qualifier and hope that Spain falter against Georgia to secure the top spot in Group A. For a team that had experienced heartbreak in previous campaigns, simply having a chance at this stage is a remarkable achievement.
The trip to Tbilisi, where Scotland’s past European Championship dreams were shattered, was a daunting prospect. However, this resilient team continues to defy expectations and find ways to grind out results, even when they are not at their best.
In the absence of key defensive players like Aaron Hickey, Kieran Tierney, and captain Andy Robertson, as well as several other regular starters, this double-header presented an opportunity for some of Scotland’s less heralded players to step up. Lawrence Shankland, in particular, made the most of his late call-up by scoring the crucial equalizer and staking a claim for a starting spot in the upcoming match against Norway.
While there were moments of concern in defense, with Georgia testing Scotland’s goalkeeper, Clark, and some missed opportunities in attack, this match was a testament to the team’s character and resilience.
Scotland’s head coach, Steve Clarke, praised his team’s character, emphasizing that they came to Georgia with the intention of winning and showed good character to secure a point. Lawrence Shankland echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of the late equalizer and the difficulty of playing in Tbilisi.
As Scotland’s memorable qualifying campaign reaches its conclusion, all eyes will be on their final match against Norway and the Euro 2024 draw, which promises to be an exciting event. This rollercoaster journey has rekindled hope among the Tartan Army, proving that in football, as in life, it’s never over until the final whistle blows.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Scotland Euro 2024 Qualifiers
Q: What was the significance of Lawrence Shankland’s late equalizer for Scotland?
A: Lawrence Shankland’s stoppage-time equalizer was significant because it rescued a crucial point for Scotland in their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign. It kept their hopes of topping the group alive and prevented their manager, Steve Clarke, from suffering a fourth consecutive defeat.
Q: How did Khvicha Kvaratskhelia perform in the match?
A: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was the standout performer for Georgia, scoring two goals in the match. His clinical finishing and attacking prowess were evident, as he twice put Georgia ahead in the game.
Q: What are Scotland’s prospects for topping their qualifying group?
A: Scotland’s prospects for topping their group depend on their final qualifier against Norway and Spain’s result against Georgia. To secure the top spot, Scotland needs to win against Norway and hope that Spain loses to Georgia.
Q: Who were some key players missing for Scotland in this match?
A: Scotland was missing key defensive players, including Aaron Hickey, Kieran Tierney, and captain Andy Robertson, along with first-choice goalkeeper Angus Gunn and striker Che Adams.
Q: How has this qualifying campaign been different for Scotland compared to previous ones?
A: This qualifying campaign has been different for Scotland in that they have managed to stay competitive and keep their hopes alive despite facing challenges. The team has shown resilience and character, defying expectations.
Q: What did Scotland’s head coach, Steve Clarke, say about the team’s performance?
A: Steve Clarke praised the team’s character and their intention to win the game. He acknowledged the difficulty of the match against a strong opponent like Georgia and emphasized the importance of not losing.
Q: What’s next for Scotland in their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign?
A: Scotland’s next and final match in their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign is against Norway. The outcome of this match will play a crucial role in determining their group standings and whether they can secure the top spot.
Q: When is the Euro 2024 draw taking place?
A: The Euro 2024 draw is scheduled to take place two weeks after Scotland’s final qualifier, on 2 December. It will be an eagerly anticipated event for fans and teams alike as they await their fate in the tournament.
More about Scotland Euro 2024 Qualifiers
- BBC Sport: Georgia 2-2 Scotland – Euro 2024 qualifying match report
- Euro 2024 Qualifiers: Scotland’s journey
