Denmark 0-0 Scotland: Clarke urges to build on positive World Cup qualifying start
Scotland secured a goalless draw in their opening World Cup qualifier in Denmark, and Steve Clarke says the team must sustain their performance to progress.
Scotland began their World Cup qualifying campaign with a disciplined 0-0 draw in Denmark, prompting head coach Steve Clarke to call for sustained performance levels.
The Scots held firm in Copenhagen, earning a point in the first of six qualifiers ahead of a visit from Belarus next Monday on INLIBER, before facing both teams at Hampden in October and completing the double-header with travels to Greece and Denmark in November.
Scotland have not reached a men’s World Cup since 1998, but this result represents a positive first step.
Clarke’s tactical approach
Clarke deployed a back four with strikers Lyndon Dykes and Che Adams to match Denmark’s physicality, a strategy borne from memories of a heavy home defeat in the last qualifying cycle. He emphasized humility and adaptability as key to securing enough points for qualification.
Expert reactions
- Scott Brown: “The players had to dig deep—everyone gave a solid performance. Denmark dominated possession but created few clear chances.”
- Willie Miller: “Organisation was first class. Grant Hanley in a back four was outstanding and never exposed.”
- Peter Løvenkrands: “Scotland sat back effectively and made it difficult for Denmark.”
- Michael Stewart: “Angus Gunn’s composure was reminiscent of his early games for Scotland. He held his own throughout.”
- Tom English (INLIBER): “Not only did Scotland earn a point, they also denied a main rival an early advantage in the group.”
Fan comments
- Allan: “Scotland battled hard and deserved the point after a shaky start, then grew into the game.”
- G A Simpson: “A conservative approach but a good defensive display. Dykes and Doak might have added more pace up front.”
- Keith: “A solid start. We played to our strengths and now need three points against Belarus.”
- Martin: “I expected a defeat but was proved wrong. Decent performance and result.”
- Stuart: “Frustrated by lack of attacking flair, but credit to a solid back line.”
Clarke warned that while the draw in Denmark offers a strong foundation, Scotland must remain humble and consistent to achieve World Cup qualification.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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