'Possessed' Davidson fills Weir gap as Scots set up glamour Sweden tie

What the report says

Scotland reached the next stage of their Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign with a 3-2 second-leg win over the Czech Republic in Paisley, completing a 5-2 aggregate victory and setting up a play-off against Sweden for a place at next summer’s tournament in Brazil. BBC Sport reported that the match came as Scotland were without captain Caroline Weir, who withdrew in the warm-up because of an injury, while Erin Cuthbert was used sparingly as she continues to build fitness.

A key figure in Scotland’s comeback was Lauren Davidson, who scored the equaliser after the Czechs’ early opening goal and was praised by Cuthbert as outstanding and tireless. Davidson, who has started Scotland’s last five games, also adapted to a central role after a tactical change following Weir’s late absence. The BBC said she repeatedly found space in the box and remained a constant attacking threat throughout the match.

The report added that Davidson’s form for Scotland is continuing alongside a strong season with Brann in Norway, where she is nearing the end of her contract. For Scotland, the result keeps their 2027 World Cup hopes alive, but the upcoming two-legged tie with Sweden is likely to be a much tougher test, given Sweden’s recent record at major tournaments. The first leg is due in Paisley, with the return in Stockholm a few days later.