Scotland lost 3-2 to Greece in their World Cup qualifier in Piraeus - yet can still reach the finals automatically after Denmark drew 2-2 at home to Belarus.
In a crazy, rollercoaster night of international football, Scotland now know that a win against the Danes at Hampden on Tuesday night will be enough to see them over the line.
Steve Clarke’s men so nearly battled back from three goals down against the Greeks, who roared ahead via goals from Anastasios Bakasetas, Konstantinos Karetsas and Christos Tzolis.
Scotland staged a fightback, with Ben Gannon-Doak and Ryan Christie finding the net - and a great save denying Scott McTominay what would have been an equaliser.
Nevertheless, thanks to Belarus’ fine result in Copenhagen, Scotland are just a point behind Denmark and should they beat them on Tuesday evening at Hampden, they will avoid the play-offs and reach the World Cup next year for the first time since 1998.
5. Andy Robertson
The captain will not be pleased with his role in the opening goal. Showed all his experience and influence to drive on a Scotland fightback and tried to support his forward players whenever possible. Lovely cross for Christie's goal. Cap No 90 for the Liverpool man - and probably won't have played in a more barmy encounter. 6 | PA
6. Lewis Ferguson
On his 20th appearance for Scotland, he was booked for catching Pavlidis in the face as he struggled to anchor the midfield for the visitors. He did exert more influence as the game became ragged and was the victim of an elbow that led to Bakasetas being dismissed. 5 | Getty Images
7. Ryan Christie
One of Scotland's more threatening players. Came into the game more and more after a tricky start. He put in a fine interception to set up a major chance for Adams on 53 minutes, although his first touch let him down. Timed his run brilliantly to head home Robertson's cross on 70 minutes to make it 3-2. Ended up being replaced by Dykes as Scotland chased another goal. 7 | Getty Images
8. John McGinn
Had to walk a tightrope after a booking on ten minutes. Nevertheless, he continued to be one of Scotland's more accomplished performers and can be pleased with his night's work. Great cross for Gannon-Doak to finish from close range and so nearly fashioned an equaliser when he drove down the byline towards the end. 7 | PA