McGinn excited for Euros after 'strange' qualification

William Furness
LiveScore
John McGinn scored a penalty in Scotland's 3-3 draw against Norway
John McGinn scored a penalty in Scotland's 3-3 draw against Norway

John McGinn is ready for Euro 2024 after Scotland completed their qualification campaign with a 3-3 draw against Norway.

McGinn, who is the Tartan Army's captain while Andrew Robertson is absent, scored a penalty during the thrilling encounter.

Steve Clarke's side secured their spot at Euro 2024 last month — eventually finishing four points behind Spain in Group A — and McGinn admitted it was strange to have completed their mission so easily.

The 29-year-old told ViaPlay: "The main thing is we're going to Germany.

"There was a lot said about Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard missing [for Norway] but we had a lot missing tonight, too. 

"Qualifying the last time was incredible. This time has been strange. It's not like us to qualify early."

The hosts twice came from behind in the first half, with goals by Aron Donnum and Jorgen Larsen cancelled out by McGinn's penalty and Leo Ostigard's own goal. 

Stuart Armstrong's strike looked to have earned a win but former Celtic winger Mohamed Elyounoussi finished well to level late on.

McGinn said: "It's a bit disappointing not to get the win.

"The first half was not great from our point of view — we were probably lucky to go in level.

"But [it was] a good second half and then disappointing to concede the goal so late on."

Scotland now eagerly await next month's group-stage draw.

They will be placed in pot three and could therefore face a Euros rematch with England, who they drew 0-0 with at the 2021 tournament.

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ScotlandEuropean ChampionshipJohn McGinn