Scotland Rally Past Czechs 3-2 to Reach Sweden Playoff Final

Scotland Rally Past Czechs 3-2 to Reach Sweden Playoff Final
Scotland players celebrate after securing a 3-2 win over the Czech Republic in Paisley. Photo: BBC Sport

PAISLEY — Scotland twice came from behind to beat the Czech Republic 3-2 in Paisley and progress 5-2 on aggregate to a Women's World Cup play-off final against Sweden. The home side overturned two deficits on the night to win the second leg and close out the two-legged tie in the European qualifying play-offs. The comeback at the Paisley venue ensured Scotland moved on from the semifinal stage to set up the decisive final.

Scotland trailed on two separate occasions but responded each time to level the match before striking for the decisive third goal to secure the 3-2 victory. The result added to the advantage built in the first leg and produced a 5-2 aggregate scoreline, ending the Czech Republic's qualifying run. Needing to protect and extend the aggregate lead, Scotland showed character to answer each setback and ultimately find the winner that put the tie beyond reach.

Sweden now awaits as the final hurdle for a place at the Women's World Cup, with a berth at the tournament on the line in the play-off final. Scotland will carry momentum from a resilient home performance that required two equalizers and a late winner to get the job done. The format leaves no margin for error, and Scotland's ability to rally twice offers encouragement ahead of the showdown with Sweden.