Scotland captain Andy Robertson has revealed the profound emotional turmoil he experienced before leading his nation to their first World Cup qualification since 1998, dedicating the historic achievement to his late Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota.
An Emotional Prelude to Victory
The Liverpool defender admitted he was "in bits" during the hours leading up to Scotland's crucial match against Denmark, overwhelmed by thoughts of his friend Jota, the Portugal forward who tragically died in a car crash earlier this summer. Robertson confessed these emotions nearly overcame him before the decisive 4-2 victory that secured Scotland's place in the 2026 World Cup in North America.
"I've hid it well, but today I've been in bits," Robertson told the BBC. "I know the age I'm at, this could be my last chance to go to the World Cup. I couldn't get my mate Diogo Jota out of my head today. We spoke so much about the World Cup."
A Shared Dream Remembered
The Scotland skipper revealed how he and Jota had frequently discussed their World Cup aspirations, with both players having missed previous tournaments - Jota through injury and Robertson through Scotland's failure to qualify. These conversations came flooding back to the defender as he faced what he described as potentially his final opportunity to reach football's grandest stage.
"He missed out last time because of injury, I missed out because Scotland didn't qualify and we always discussed what it would be like going to the World Cup," Robertson shared emotionally. "I was in a bit of trouble in my room earlier. I think I hid it well from the boys. I know he'll be somewhere smiling over me tonight. I couldn't get him out of my head all day."
A Dramatic Night of Football
The match itself provided a rollercoaster of emotions for the Hampden Park crowd. Steve Clarke's side saw their early lead through Scott McTominay cancelled out twice by a Denmark team reduced to ten men, with Lawrence Shankland also finding the net for Scotland.
The dramatic conclusion saw Kieran Tierney put Scotland ahead again in the third minute of added time before Kenny McLean sealed the victory in spectacular fashion with a stunning strike from the halfway line.
"That just sums up this squad. Never say die, we just keep going right to the end," an elated Robertson declared. "One of the craziest games of football. We've certainly put the country through it, but I'm sure it's worth it - we're going to the World Cup and I can't believe it."
The captain also paid tribute to manager Steve Clarke and the entire squad, describing it as "the best group I've ever been involved in" and highlighting the manager's inspirational team talk before the match.
Robertson concluded by reflecting on the significance of the achievement, calling it "one of the greatest nights of my life" and a moment to cherish for players, staff, and families alike - undoubtedly with one special friend looking down and sharing in the joy.
