Scotland Secures Draw in World Cup Qualifier Against Denmark
Scotland's opening World Cup qualification match ended in a goalless draw against Denmark, but the encounter generated significant discussion despite the lack of goals.
Steve Clarke's team selection and tactical approach, along with the return of some familiar players, sparked mixed reactions. However, after the match, Scotland emerged with a valuable away point against the group’s top seeds.
Next, they will travel to Hungary to face Belarus on Monday, with the match set to be broadcast live on the BBC.
What insights can we draw from this tense contest in Copenhagen?
'Tonight Looked Like a Clarke Team'
Defensive strength has been a hallmark of Steve Clarke's Scotland teams, especially during their successful qualification for consecutive European Championships. Yet, earlier this year, they conceded three goals in back-to-back matches against Greece and Iceland, revealing vulnerabilities in their defense.
In Copenhagen, however, the team showcased their resilience. They restricted Denmark to only two shots on target despite the hosts making 55 entries into the final third. Scotland maintained excellent defensive shape, and whenever Denmark threatened, the Scots were quick to block their attempts.
“It was about staying in the game,” said Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn. “We’re managing games better. Tonight looked like a Steve Clarke team.”
This match marked the first time Scotland achieved three consecutive away clean sheets since November 2021, signaling a positive return for their defense.
“Scotland were content to sit back and fight it out,” remarked former Rangers and Denmark striker Peter Lovenkrands. “They made it very difficult for Denmark.”
Hanley 'Outstanding' as Veteran Players Shine
A significant part of Scotland's performance was attributed to some of Clarke's most trusted players. Grant Hanley has remained a fixture for Scotland despite limited playing time at the club level for over two seasons. His center-back partner in Copenhagen, John Souttar, also tends to start whenever fit.
Together, they made 16 clearances and won 10 duels, effectively thwarting wave after wave of Danish attacks, much to the frustration of the home players and fans.
“It’s very easy to criticize Grant Hanley—he heads everything, clears everything,” McGinn commented on the Hibs defender. “The back four were outstanding.”
Former Scotland defensive hero Willie Miller praised Hanley’s performance, stating, “I thought he was outstanding; you have to hand it to him. He was never exposed.”
Captain Andy Robertson, a more obvious choice, also played to his usual high standards, making 10 clearances and delivering eight crosses into the box.
Rounding out the back four was Aaron Hickey.
Hickey's Return 'An Absolute Pleasure'
With Hickey and Nathan Patterson emerging, Scotland appeared to have the right-back position well covered with these two talented players. However, injuries have plagued both over the past two years, forcing Scotland to either adopt a back three or focus their build-up play predominantly down the left flank.
During his 69 minutes in the Danish capital, the 23-year-old Hickey demonstrated the quality Scotland has been missing. His composure and skill in both defense and attack, coupled with his versatility, provided a valuable balance to Robertson on the opposite flank.
“Aaron has had a really tough time with injuries, and he showed the qualities he possesses,” Clarke said. “Being able to select him again is an absolute pleasure.”
“We knew 60-65 minutes would probably be all we’d get out of him, but when you see the performance, he’s in fantastic physical shape, and his quality shone through.”
Former Scotland captain Scott Brown echoed these sentiments, highlighting Hickey as a standout performer in an impressive team effort.
If he starts on Monday, Hickey will likely face more offensive responsibilities, but he possesses the temperament and skill to adapt and excel in various situations.
Clarke's Tactical Flexibility on Display
Clarke's choice of formation and personnel raised eyebrows in the lead-up to the match. Torino's Che Adams partnered Lyndon Dykes up front, supported by a flat midfield four featuring John McGinn, Lewis Ferguson, Scott McTominay, and Ryan Christie.
Adams worked tirelessly, dropping into midfield as Scotland maintained a narrow and compact formation, aiming to frustrate Denmark and capitalize on any mistakes.
“I’ve always tried to show flexibility,” Clarke stated when asked about his setup. “That’s my job, to make these calls. If I’m not brave, I might as well not be in the job.”
Some critics expressed disappointment with Clarke's selections before the match, advocating for Scott McKenna at center-back, Billy Gilmour in midfield, and Kieron Bowie up front. Gannon-Doak was the only one who saw action in Copenhagen, showcasing flashes of his explosive pace and dribbling as Scotland absorbed pressure late in the game.
“I think the manager is well justified in his selection,” former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart noted. “The one thing that is absolutely certain is that the dressing room is 100% believing and confident that the manager is the right man.”
Clarke hinted at potential changes for the Belarus match on Monday, a game Scotland is expected to win. Might this be an opportunity to give players like Gannon-Doak a chance to shine from the start?