Scotland secured their place at the 2024 European Championships in Germany with a 1-0 victory over Norway. The win came after five consecutive group stage victories, with their only defeat being a 2-0 loss to Spain. Goalkeeper Angus Gunn, who pledged his international allegiance to Scotland, played a key role in their successful campaign. However, defender Grant Hanley has been sidelined since April due to an Achilles injury but is close to a return to team training according to his club boss, David Wagner.
Midfielder Kenny McLean, who missed out on the last Euros due to injury, scored the dramatic winner against Norway earlier in the campaign that helped Scotland maintain their early momentum. Norwich City, the club to which Gunn, Hanley, and McLean belong, can all now aim to secure their place in Steve Clarke’s plans for the tournament in Germany. Currently, Gunn and McLean are preparing for a friendly against France before returning to their club for a Championship home game against Leeds.
Scotland’s boss, Steve Clarke, congratulated the players on their qualification for back-to-back tournaments and highlighted the significance of their achievement after more than 20 years of not qualifying. He also acknowledged the support of the backroom team and the fans, who have helped create a feared atmosphere at Hampden Park. Clarke emphasized the progress made by the team and their ambition to be serial qualifiers. He mentioned that the team would celebrate their achievement but quickly turn their attention to upcoming matches against Georgia and Norway.
Gunn expressed his excitement at the prospect of participating in a major tournament with his country, describing it as a dream come true. He acknowledged that reaching the finals would be the biggest achievement of his football career. Looking ahead, Scotland will focus on their remaining matches to finish the qualifying stage with as many points as possible.
