Overview 1985 – 1990

Scotland found themselves in a strong group for the 1986 world cup, nicknamed ‘the group of death.’ The group featured Denmark, Uruguay and West Germany. Scotland started off by losing their opening match 1-0 to Denmark and then enjoyed their finest game against West Germany, where shades of 1982 against Brazil, the briefly led the match thanks to a goal by Gordon Strachan goal, however they ended up losing the tie 2-1 and they knew victory in their final match against Uruguay was crucial to stand any chance for progressing. Despite Uruguay having a man sent off, the score line remained goalless by the end of the match and Scotland were once again out.
Scotland started off their euro 88 qualifying campaign with two draws against Bulgaria and Eire which was followed up by a fine 3-0 victory over Luxembourg. Two consecutive defeats, first at home against Eire and then a 4-1 thrashing away against Belgium, meant they had no chance of qualifying for the tournament. However they restored some pride as they won their final two matches against Belgium and Bulgaria.
Scotland qualified for the 1990 world cup finals however they made life more than difficult for themselves as they lost 3-0 against France which left them needing a point at Hampden against Norway to qualify for the competition. Ally McCosit amazingly scored the goal they needed to give them the cushion as he flicked the ball over Tortsvedt. With a minute remaining Jim Leighton made a huge goalkeeping blunder which allowed Norway to equalize, however Scotland secured their place in the 1990 world cup finals. Scotland started the tournament in the most disastrous fashion as they lost 1-0 to Costa Rica; many consider it as one of the biggest shocks of all time. Scotland pressed on throughout the match in search of an equalizer, with mo Johnstone hitting the post; however Scotland lost and knew victory against Sweden was required. The Scots lifted themselves brilliantly as they beat Sweden, with goals from McCall and Johnston and they looked to be heading to the next round as they were holding Brazil 0-0 for most of their final group match, however a Jim Leighton goal keeping error allowed Brazil to score and put Scotland behind. In the dying minutes of the match Mo Johnston missed a great opportunity with a header from 10 yards out and Scotland were eliminated from the world cup.