Denmark and Scotland began their FIFA World Cup qualifying campaigns with a goalless draw at Parken Stadium, extending the Danes’ unbeaten home record in qualifiers to almost eight years.

Scotland, chasing a first World Cup appearance since 1998, started brightly. Lyndon Dykes headed narrowly over early on before John McGinn squandered a golden chance at the far post from a Lewis Ferguson corner.

Denmark, who had won 11 of their last 12 home games before kickoff, were frustrated by Scotland’s discipline and created little before half-time.Tempers flared when Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg was caught late by Ryan Christie, but neither referee Daniel Siebert nor VAR intervened.

The hosts slowly improved after the break, with Anders Dreyer stinging the side netting, while appeals for a red card against Max Johnston for handball were turned down following a VAR review.Scotland held firm and almost stole it late through substitute Ben Doak, whose mazy run ended with a deflected shot over the bar.

The point leaves Scotland well placed ahead of Monday’s must-win tie with Belarus, while Denmark will rue missed chances that could prove costly in a tight Group C campaign.