Scotland is gripped by World Cup fever after qualifying for the tournament for the first time in 28 years. The nation, known for its self-deprecating style, is embracing the occasion with brash new tartans, free Irn-Bru-infused beers for red-haired patrons, and all-night parties at fanzones.
Supporters flying to the United States from Edinburgh and Glasgow airports were serenaded by pipers and Highland dancers, with Edinburgh's full military tattoo marching band performing. The excitement has been tinged with a traditional row with England after disparaging remarks on Good Morning Britain about an extra bank holiday sanctioned by the king for Scotland.
The wait ends at 2am UK time on Sunday when Scotland face underdogs Haiti in Boston. First Minister John Swinney will attend the match, mixing sport with trade and cultural meetings. The fanzone at Glasgow's SWG3 venue has sold out for the Haiti match and subsequent games against Brazil and Morocco, with 1,300 fans expected for each overnight fixture.
The anticipation was amplified by Scotland's dramatic final qualifier against Denmark at Hampden Park. A must-win match saw talismanic midfielder Scott McTominay score a remarkable overhead kick within three minutes, and Kenny McLean seal a 4-2 victory with an audacious goal from the halfway line in extra time. The four goals have become iconic, with McTominay's kick immortalised in a mural near Hampden.
For older fans, the victory evokes memories of 1978 when Archie Gemmill's solo goal against the Netherlands sparked naive dreams of success. Manager Ally MacLeod's overconfidence then led to mass hype, but the team failed to progress. This time, the mood is more measured, with fans cautiously optimistic after years of disillusionment.
