Ally McCoist could barely contain himself in Las Vegas after watching Scotland book their place at the 2026 World Cup, promising to “rip Vegas to shreds” in celebration.
The talkSPORT presenter lost his voice cheering on the Tartan Army from a bar across the Atlantic as they ended their 28-year World Cup drought with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Denmark.
McCoist, who’s been touring America watching NFL games, wasn’t about to miss his beloved Scotland’s crucial qualifier.
The 63-year-old shared footage of himself barely able to speak, croaking with emotion after witnessing the dramatic late comeback at Hampden Park.
Scotland’s incredible journey to North America began with Scott McTominay’s overhead kick, but the real drama unfolded in the dying moments.
After Denmark had drawn level at 2-2 through Rasmus Hojlund’s penalty and Patrick Dorgu’s late strike, it looked like Steve Clarke’s men were heading for the play-offs.
Then came the magic. Kieran Tierney’s deflected strike from outside the box put Scotland ahead deep into stoppage time.
But Kenny McLean saved the best for last, launching an audacious chip from the halfway line over Kasper Schmeichel with the final kick of the match.
The 4-2 triumph saw Scotland top Group C and secure automatic qualification for their first World Cup since 1998.
In his Instagram video from the Vegas bar, McCoist struggled to get the words out.
Scotland secured qualification in dramatic circumstances that left a nation going barmy
|
GETTY“Man alive, man alive!” he croaked, his voice completely shot. “I’m absolutely… voice is going, buzzing with a capital B. Buzzing. Capital B.”
The former Rangers striker insisted he was sticking to Diet Coke despite the monumental occasion. “My voice is going. Unbelievable lads. Unbelievable!” he continued, gesturing towards the screen where he’d watched the match.
“What a finish that was – I just can’t believe it. It’s remarkable, absolutely remarkable. Just so happy, so happy!” McCoist managed between his hoarse celebrations.
McCoist’s Vegas celebration came during his American football adventure, having watched the Dallas Cowboys defeat the Las Vegas Raiders earlier in his trip.
The Rangers legend described it as a “road trip to remember” – and Scotland made certain of that.
The former striker, who netted 19 goals in 61 Scotland appearances, was part of the 1990 World Cup squad but famously missed out on selection for France ’98 under Craig Brown. That tournament marked Scotland’s last World Cup appearance until now.
Steve Clarke’s squad have written themselves into Scottish football history, with McCoist promising he’ll be back in North America next summer to support them – assuming his Vegas celebrations don’t get too wild.
