Scotland’s win over Belarus seals top-two finish in World Cup qualifying group

Scotland laboured to an unconvincing 2-1 Hampden win over Belarus – but it proved enough to seal a top-two finish in Group C with two World Cup qualifiers to come.

Goals from Che Adams and Scott McTominay ultimately guaranteed Scotland at least a play-off place as Greece later suffered a 3-1 defeat against Denmark that left them seven points adrift of the top two.

Given Denmark’s goal difference advantage, Scotland will almost certainly need to beat the Danes at Hampden on November 18th, but a draw in Greece three days earlier would be enough to ensure the final match is the group decider.

On an evening when Steve Clarke took charge of the national side for a record-breaking 72nd time, Adams fired the home team ahead after 15 minutes.

Tonight’s result in Copenhagen means we have guaranteed at least second place in Group C – and a with it a World Cup play-off place.

We’re buzzing to getting back to action in November as we aim to finish first in the Group and seal automatic qualification.

See you in Athens. pic.twitter.com/vrk3IAccXA

— Scotland National Team (@ScotlandNT) October 12, 2025

The visitors had a second-half goal disallowed for a foul on McTominay before the Napoli star struck from 10 yards in the 84th minute.

Belarus substitute Hleb Kuchko reduced the deficit in the sixth minute of added time and in a qualification section that might come down to goal difference – Belarus lost by six to Denmark – the Tartan Army had hoped for more goals and a more fluid performance.

Clarke had to reshuffle his side due to the suspension of midfielders Ryan Christie and Lewis Ferguson while Aaron Hickey’s knee injury forced him out.

The Scots showed five changes with defenders Anthony Ralston, Jack Hendry and Scott McKenna and