Published on 20.11.2023
Scotland’s eventful Euro 2024 qualifying journey concluded with a captivating draw as Mohamed Elyounoussi’s late equalizer secured Norway a point at Hampden.
Despite already securing their place in Germany next summer, Scotland finished second in Group A behind Spain, who defeated Georgia as anticipated.
In a first half marked by defensive lapses, Scotland responded twice to Norway’s goals, with Aron Donnum and Jorgen Larsen finding the net, but John McGinn’s penalty and Leo Ostigard’s own goal leveled the score. Stuart Armstrong’s goal seemed to seal another victory for Scotland, but Elyounoussi’s late header equalized.
🗣️ "We're on the right track."
— Scotland National Team (@ScotlandNT) November 19, 2023
Hear from tonight's @EE Player of the Match, Callum McGregor, as he reflects on tonight's draw, and our campaign as a whole, before looking ahead at what's to come. #SCONOR pic.twitter.com/NnYBIHyjy8
Awaiting the Euro 2024 draw next month, Scotland will be among the third pot of seeds.
With key players absent, this match provided an opportunity for squad players to showcase their abilities. Scotland, starting with a back four, appeared vulnerable, especially in the first half, where Norway capitalized on Oscar Bobb’s impressive play, resulting in goals by Donnum and Larsen.
The Tartan Army, in celebratory mode for their team’s qualification, witnessed a swift response as McGinn converted a penalty after a handball. Despite Larsen’s goal for Norway, Scotland leveled again when Kenny MacLean’s flick-on from McTominay’s corner led to Ostigard inadvertently scoring an own goal.
In the second half, Scotland exerted more control, and Armstrong’s well-executed finish after a combination with McGinn seemed to secure victory. However, Norway had other plans as Julian Ryerson’s chip caught Scotland’s goalkeeper off guard, and Elyounoussi secured a late equalizer with a header at the back post. Despite failing to qualify directly, it offered some consolation for Norway.
