But they did it. Scotland are going to the Euros after an epic night in Belgrade ended a 22-year wait to return the Tartan Army to a major men’s football tournament once again.
It took penalties again, and immense character after the Serbian sucker-punch in the last minute cancelled Ryan Christie’s goal and sent the game to extra-time and then penalties, but Scotland held their nerves and won their second shootout in as many months.
Here’s how Scotland’s players, and boss Steve Clarke, rated on the night.
Scale - 10: One of the best performances you've seen. 9: Outstanding. 8: Very good. 7: Good. 6: Average. 5: Poor, 4: Very poor. 3: A terrible day at the office. 2: Abysmal. 1: One of the worst performances you've seen.
5. Stephen O'Donnell - 8
Defender was brave beyond the halfway line and could have scored but defending was sensational improvement on early caps and though a surprise inclusion, more than justified his manager's faith. Photo: ANDREJ ISAKOVIC
6. Andy Robertson - 7
Missed a great chance - probably THE chance - a minute before Christie put Scotland ahead. Captain got forward but Serbia tried to exploit the space he left - but he often got back to help Callum McGregor covering. Photo: Nikola Krstic - SNS Group
7. Ryan Jack - 7
Kept it tidy in the middle playing between the advanced McGinn and McGregor dropping deeper, Jack kept the ball moving in the middle to control the tempo and knit it all together. Photo: ANDREJ ISAKOVIC
8. Callum McGregor - 8
Dropped deep in the first half, and linked the attack in the second. All-round midfield performance of the highest order from mcGregor - it just hasn't been seen enough from the Celtic man this season. Photo: ANDREJ ISAKOVIC