Scotland captain Andy Robertson has issued a passionate rallying cry to the Tartan Army, urging them to create an unforgettable atmosphere at Hampden Park that could propel the national team to their first World Cup since 1998.
Historic Opportunity Awaits
Despite suffering a disappointing away defeat to Greece on Saturday night, Steve Clarke's squad know that victory against Denmark on Tuesday will guarantee them top spot in Group C and secure passage to next summer's World Cup finals. The Liverpool defender, set to earn his 90th international cap, believes the energy from a packed Hampden could prove decisive on what might become a historic night for Scottish football.
Robertson reflected on the criticism following their narrow win against Belarus, stating: "There was huge frustration after our game with Belarus in terms of the reaction in the media and from fans - even from within our changing room. But points are points, you need them on the board and we managed to get three that day."
Turning Negativity into Opportunity
The skipper acknowledged that some criticism during the campaign has been justified, but emphasised their strong position: "A lot has been said during this campaign. There's been a bit of negativity and maybe some of it has been justified. But we're sitting here with 10 points, one behind first place and 90 minutes away from the World Cup."
Robertson expressed confidence in his team's ability to deliver when it matters most: "If we perform the way I believe we can - and we've shown it over periods in this campaign - I think we've got enough to get the win. We're excited for tomorrow and the lads will be ready."
A Nation Holds Its Breath
The Scotland captain is acutely aware that the entire country will come to a standstill during the match, with supporters gathering in pubs and homes across the nation. Referencing Belarus's surprise draw against Denmark that kept Scotland's qualification hopes alive, he noted: "I think pub and bar owners will be delighted that Belarus got the draw! They'll be busy and we know Hampden will be a sell-out and packed."
Robertson highlighted the overwhelming support the team has felt throughout their campaign: "We've been very fortunate in going to Euros and feeling the whole country backing the team. We've always felt the love from the country, we've always felt people behind us. We only landed back last night, but even walking through the airport, and seeing people out today, people are wishing us well and good luck."
While many supporters believe qualification is now written in the stars after Belarus's unexpected draw against Denmark, Robertson urged caution: "I think it is dangerous territory. I don't believe in that. They are a fantastic team, a team full of quality, a team that's pot one for a reason. It's a team that is used to qualifying for tournaments."
The Scotland captain stressed the fundamental requirement for victory: "We need to score one goal at least, we have to win the game. If we do that we know where that takes us."
Despite the enormous pressure of the occasion, Robertson believes this squad possesses the necessary big-game experience: "When you look through the whole squad we have played in a lot of big games in terms of cup finals, league deciders, big games for Scotland, trying to qualify for the Euros and things like that. We have played in the big games and we have that experience."
The only absentee from the squad will be Billy Gilmour, who hasn't trained since missing the Greece match with a minor injury. As Scotland stands on the brink of ending their 26-year World Cup exile, Robertson's final message to the fans was clear: "Get to your seat early, make a noise, make it an incredible atmosphere for these lads - because we'll react off that."
