Robertson Dedicates World Cup Qualification to Jota
Scotland captain Andrew Robertson revealed that the pre-match build-up to the crucial World Cup qualifying match against Denmark was filled with mixed emotions, remembering his former Liverpool teammate, Diogo Jota, with whom he shared the dream of playing in the World Cup.
The 4-2 victory over Denmark in Glasgow secured Scotland’s place in the 2026 World Cup, marking their first appearance since 1998. Goals from Scott McTominay, Lawrence Shankland, Kieran Tierney, and Kenny McLean sealed a dramatic victory.
“I think I’ve hidden it well, but I’ve been torn to pieces,” Robertson declared.
Andrew Robertson
Robertson, 31, admitted that the euphoria of the qualification was mixed with sadness due to his friendship with Jota, Portugal’s forward, who died in a car accident in July.“I knew that, at my age, this would be my last chance to play in a World Cup, and I couldn’t get my friend Diogo Jota out of my head,” added Robertson.
The Liverpool defender recalled the conversations they had about the World Cup and how Jota missed the 2022 edition due to an injury. “We always discussed what it would be like to go to this World Cup, but I know he will be smiling for me tonight,” he said.
Robertson, who has achieved great success at Liverpool, including Premier League and Champions League titles, described the victory against Denmark as “one of the greatest nights of my life.” The player highlighted the team’s unity and the motivational speech by coach Steve Clarke before the match.
“This group of lads and the staff, it’s the best group I’ve been involved with and the manager’s speech before the game was incredible,” said Robertson.
“He told us about the memories we have created and that we should make another one. We were very excited at that moment, so doing it for everyone will be remembered as one of the greatest nights of my life.”
