'They could smell magic': Steve Clarke delights in Scotland repaying fans’ faith

Scotland drew on the disappointment of losing out to Ukraine in a play-off to qualify for the 2022 tournament

Steve Clarke: "It’s going to be a good Christmas in the Clarke household, I promise you.” Pic: Andrew Milligan/PA Wire

Steve Clarke believes the Scotland support could “smell magic” before World Cup qualification was sealed in dramatic style with a 4-2 win against Denmark.

At 2-2 in stoppage time, Scotland were bound for the playoffs in March. Stunning goals from Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean triggered euphoric scenes as the Scots secured a spot in the men’s World Cup for the first time since 1998. McLean scored Scotland’s fourth from the halfway line.