Scotland superfan Neil McKnight is travelling to the United States for a flying 70-hour visit to watch a World Cup group match on a television screen. The avid supporter is flying from London to Miami to witness Brazil versus Scotland on the telly, fulfilling a dream he has held since the 1978 World Cup in Argentina.
A Dream Decades in the Making
McKnight, a 62-year-old retired programme manager originally from Ayr but now living in Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire, has never travelled abroad to watch Scotland before. However, after Scotland's victory over Haiti last night, he is determined to be in the US to potentially see them reach the knockout stages. Despite not having a ticket and knowing he won't get one, he insists the trip will be worth every penny.
“I just want to be part of the Tartan Army at the World Cup,” said Neil, an Ayr United fanatic. “And what better way to do it than to watch the lads take on Brazil on a giant TV in Miami. It’s going to be great.”
The Cost and Logistics
The journey will cost him over £1,000, but he believes it is a worthwhile investment. To keep expenses down, he is flying back to London via Charlotte rather than taking a direct flight. He will stay in an Airbnb in the Miami suburb of Little Havana. His wife Alison supports his plans, and their daughter Kayleigh's wedding on June 20th prevented him from attending other group games.
Neil saw his first Ayr United game against Morton in 1969 and his first Scotland match in 1982. He has watched Scotland at Hampden Park many times but never overseas. His close friend, England and QPR fan Andy Clayden, jokingly remarked, “It’s a long way to go and a lot of money to celebrate a couple of possible corners.”
Scotland's World Cup Campaign
Scotland are appearing in their first World Cup finals since France 1998, facing Haiti, Morocco, and Brazil in their group. A large contingent of Tartan Army fans have gathered in Boston, singing “No Scotland – no party.” The tournament began last Thursday with the opening ceremony in Mexico City, and the final will be held in East Rutherford, just outside New York, on July 19th.
