After Scott McTominay’s goal was canceled, Spain scored two goals to beat Scotland 2-0 in Euro 2024 qualifying on October 12.
Before the match at La Cartuja Stadium, Spain had nine points and played one less match than Scotland – the team that won all five matches. The third team Norway only has seven points and plays the same match as Scotland. With each team only playing eight matches in Group A, Scotland only needs to draw in Spain to firmly grasp one of the top two positions after qualifying and win tickets to the final round.
Losing captain Andrew Robertson to injury at the end of the first half, the away team was still close to their goal of getting a point when Scott McTominay scored a free kick against Unai Simon from a tight angle in the 60th minute. But after VAR came into play, the goal was canceled. Initially, Jack Hendry was considered to have fouled the Spanish goalkeeper, but VAR’s final conclusion was that the Scottish player was offside and obstructed goalkeeper Simon.
Vice-captain John McGinn was upset after the match, saying that Hendry was not involved in the ball and Simon had no chance to block McTominay’s kick. McGinn’s reaction is understandable, because after the goal was canceled, Scotland was somewhat depressed and Spain was more confident after escaping defeat.
Just over 10 minutes after the controversial situation, Scotland conceded a goal. Alvaro Morata entered the penalty area, received Jesus Navas’s cross and headed in to open the score. Continuing the excitement, Spain scored another goal in the 86th minute. The scorer of the 2-0 victory was midfielder playing for Athletic Bilbao, Oihan Sancet.
Spain extended their winning streak at home in Euro qualifiers to 25, since 2003. They are unbeaten in their last 49 home matches in Euro and World Cup qualifiers, keeping 18 clean sheets in them. there. Luis de la Fuente and his team were able to repay the debt of losing 0-2 to Scotland in the first leg and have a good chance of qualifying for the qualifying round. Spain can even occupy the top of the final table, being three points behind the opponent, one match behind, equal head-to-head and much better in goal-loss difference.
Scotland still has the right to self-determine in the race for one of the top two spots in Group A. They are five points ahead of third team Norway and only need to draw this opponent in the direct confrontation in the final match on November 20. is sure to win tickets.
Norway raised hopes by defeating Cyprus 4-0 in this match thanks to Erling Haaland’s double. On October 16, they will play against the away team Spain in a match that greatly affects the situation in Group A.