Denmark 0 – 0 Scotland

Scotland opened their World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign with a goalless draw against Denmark in Copenhagen.

The Tartan Army, who find themselves in Group C, launched their attempt to end a 27-year wait for a taste of the World Cup with Scotland last qualifying back in 1998.

Steve Clarke’s side made a scrappy start to proceedings, with Denmark, using the home crowd to their advantage, dominating possession early on. Despite decent spells of early possession, though, the better chances fell Scotland’s way, who were able to find openings on the counter.

John McGinn’s improvised effort at the backpost following a corner represented Scotland’s best chance before the break, but he met Lewis Ferguson’s cross with a tame volleyed effort. Scott McTominay came close with an individual effort, drawing out a save from Kasper Schmeichel.

For what the tie lacked in goalmouth action, it delivered in the form of controversial refereeing with the first dubious decision arising when Ryan Christie caught Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, grazing his knee with his studs.

The challenge was checked by VAR, but referee Daniel Siebert’s on-field decision to dish out a yellow card for the offence was upheld.

VAR intervened once more, this time after the break as second-half substitute Max Johnston was shown a yellow for a perceived handball when challenging for a high ball with Mika Biereth.

VAR recommended an on-field review as it was suggested the offence, which to the naked eye seemed like the ball bounced off Johnston’s shoulder, had denied a clear goalscoring opportunity as he was the last man. Following a check that lasted a couple of minutes, Siebert’s original decision stood.

Denmark introduced Rasmus Hojlund late on in an attempt to tip the scales in their favour but despite his efforts a couple of comfortable Gunn saves late on meant that they had to settle for a point.

Scotland will face Belarus next on Monday. Belarus were thrashed 5-1 by Greece to sit at the foot of the table.

McGinn: We looked like a Clarke team tonight

Scotland captain John McGinn speaking to BBC Sport:

“First 15 minutes, we suffered a lot. It was important not to concede. They are a good team and we managed to keep a clean sheet.

“The back four were outstanding. It was about staying in the game. We’re managing games better the past couple of years.

“Tonight looked more like us and more like a Steve Clarke team.”

On Belarus next: “Belarus are a tough team, there are no easy games.

“We weren’t bad during Covid times so it should be fine behind closed doors on Monday.”

On Johnston’s VAR check for red: “Just head it mate! When he went to the screen, most referees bottle it.”

Clarke: ‘It’s not easy to get to a World Cup – we are under no illusions’

Scotland head coach Steve Clarke:

“It was a good, disciplined performance. When you come here, you are bound to fight.

“Denmark are a good side, especially at home. We knew we’d have to defend well. We certainly did that, as a team. But also, when we had the ball, we created some moments in the game, but needed just a little bit more quality where we could have gotten a goal and turned one point into three.

“It’s a good start to the group but there are lots of points to pick up. We’ve got another five games and we have to approach every game in the same manner and make sure we pick up as many points as we can in the next five games, and then we can tally it up and see if that’s enough.

“Five tough games. We are under no illusions. One point tonight is a start, but we know it’s going to be difficult. You don’t go to the World Cup easily. It’s not easy to get to the World Cup; you have to leave everything on the pitch.”

Scotland’s World Cup qualifiers

Belarus (A) – September 8Greece (H) – October 9Belarus (H) – October 12Greece (A) – November 15Denmark (H) – November 18