Scotland finally ended a 28‑year wait for a World Cup berth when Kieran Tierney’s dramatic injury‑time strike curled past Denmark, giving the Tartan Army a 4‑2 victory and first place in Group C.
The goal sparked jubilant scenes at Hampden Park, marking the first of the five newly qualified European sides and ending a drought that had lasted since 1998.
Belgium sealed their spot in style as Jérémy Doku netted a brace in a 7‑0 demolition of Liechtenstein, propelling the Red Devils to the top of Group J and guaranteeing a place at the 2026 tournament.
Spain’s qualification was confirmed by Mikel Oyarzabal’s second‑half equaliser against Turkey, a 2‑2 draw that kept La Roja unbeaten and topped Group E; Oyarzabal has been on fire, registering 15 goals and assists in his last nine matches.
Austria returned to the World Cup for the first time since 1998 after Michael Gregoritsch’s 77th‑minute goal earned a 1‑1 draw with Bosnia‑Herzegovina, while Switzerland completed an unbeaten campaign by drawing 1‑1 with Kosovo to finish atop Group B, securing their sixth consecutive appearance.
