Ahead of Scotland’s first World Cup appearance since 1998, a squad of recognisable names took to the pitch in Edinburgh for a one-off match against the Scotmid Brazil squad.
To celebrate Scotland’s return to the World Cup, Scotmid staff, customers, suppliers, family and friends came together to make up a Scotland and a Brazil team.
Those playing for Scotland bore more than just a passion for the game – many of them shared a surname with the squad preparing to take on Brazil on 24 June.
Taking to the pitch were Gunn, McGinn, Ferguson, Ralston, Christie, Stewart, Robertson, Tierney and McKenna, who came together from across the country, united by their passion for football – and a desire to win.
Friends and family cheered from the stands as the match got underway and were treated to a energetic and exciting 90 minutes, which ended in an 11-9 victory for Scotland. Each player received a medal and a goodie bag packed with a range of Scottish favourites, with the winning team lifting the prestigious Champions Trophy.
The event celebrated Scotland’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, giving customers a day to remember through a celebration of community pride and national excitement.
Lauren Rafferty, Commercial Development Coordinator at Scotmid, said: “Scotland reaching the World Cup is a huge moment. We wanted to mark it in a way that would bring people together and give our customers their own moment on the pitch.
“It’s a bit of fun but it also reflects what Scotmid is all about: community, local pride and creating moments that people can enjoy together.”
While the result on the pitch may still be up for debate among those involved, the success of the event was clear, exciting the players for Scotland’s campaign – and a hope that their result is a foreshadow of Scotland’s World Cup success!
SCOTLAND fans are being helped through another late night of football as Specsavers, the Official Eye and Ear Care Partner of the Scottish FA, equip supporters with free eye drops and a pre-written sick note.
Steve Clarke’s Scotland side continue their World Cup campaign with an 11pm kick-off against Brazil on Wednesday night.
Following on from 2am and 11pm starts against Haiti and Morocco, it’ll be another late night for bleary eyed Scotland fans hoping the team can make it through the group stage for the first time.
However, this time, much to Susanna Reid and Ed Balls’ delight, there is no bank holiday scheduled for the day after to help Scotland fans support their team to the fullest.
Thankfully, Specsavers have stepped up to the plate to help, specially producing eye drops that fans can pick up for free from any of their 86 Scottish stores – helping to keep their eyes in tip-top condition for an evening of staring at the TV and, hopefully, partying.
And if Scotland were to do enough to make it through and the celebrations go on a little longer than expected, Specsavers have also produced a sick note for people looking to avoid work on Thursday morning.
Fans can access the sick note on Specsavers’ social media channels so they can inform their boss of their ‘very important eye test’ which means they won’t be back in work until after lunch.
Specsavers Scottish Divisional Chair, Laura Baird, says: ‘Nobody in Scotland will want to miss the Brazil match as we look to make history with our first successful major tournament group stage.
‘With the finals taking place across the pond, managing the time difference has been a challenge for fans watching at home, but luckily Specsavers are here to help.
‘We hope Scotland fans are watching on with joy and fresh eyes, with the option of a Thursday morning lie in up their sleeves as well!’
Specsavers renewed its sponsorship deal with the Scottish FA in 2024, becoming the Official Eye and Ear Care Partner and extending one of the longest-running partnerships in sport.
Football fans in Edinburgh need little encouragement to cheer on whoever are playing England. And one business owner on Easter Road has an extra incentive to roar on our Auld Enemy’s opponents at the World Cup this summer.
Ernestina Doku hails from Ghana, who face England on June 23 in Boston. Ernestina runs Dazzelustrous, an independent shop selling handmade jewellery, clothing and accessories from Ghana.
The mother-of-three moved to England from Accra as a child and spent many years down south before crossing the border. But despite the time spent there, she is in no doubt about who she will be supporting at the World Cup.
“It’s Ghana all the way for me,” she said. “We are a small nation but very proud and we have some excellent players.”
Ernestina, 46, started the business in 2015 and works closely with her sister in Ghana to select the items for sale.
“I previously worked for a well-known accessories company so that experience was a big help for me in my new venture,” she added. “I contacted my sister about my idea and together we decided to create hand-crafted jewellery and accessories which were taking Africa by storm.
“My sister started taking regular craftsmanship classes and the rest is history.
“All our products are crafted in Ghana with a selection of our jewellery created by me here in Scotland.”
Ernestina has been delighted with the support received from the Edinburgh public for her business – and she is sure this will extend to her country’s football team.
“I wasn’t aware how strong the rivalry was between England and Scotland before I got here,” she said. “But knowing what I do now I am sure that the whole city will be supporting Ghana on June 23!”
Fans can experience the drama, intensity and international flair of world-class football in full cinematic glory at Vue Edinburgh Omni and Ocean as Scotland battle it out through the group stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Following their opening Group C victory over Haiti, fans can watch Scotland continue their campaign as they take on Morocco at Boston Stadium in Massachusetts, USA at 11pm BST.
Next, they’ll be facing Brazil at Miami Stadium in Florida at 11pm BST, as Scotland round off their Group C fixtures against one of world football’s biggest names.
Ian Chester, General Manager at Vue Edinburgh, said: “Vue is the perfect place to experience the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026. For those of us staying in the UK to watch, what better way to watch these giants in football than on the big screen?
“Our next level screen and sound technology are the closest thing possible to the thrill of the stadium, with stunning visuals and immersive surround sound that will make you feel like you’re right there in the action.”
Virgin Money to offer Safe Spaces across 42 of its branches to support those impacted by domestic abuse
Nationwide Group provides more Safe Spaces on the high-street than any other financial services organisation as it pledges to keep all branches open until at least 2030
Research shows alcohol-related domestic abuse reports rose by 47 per cent on the day of an England victory at a World Cup or European Championship
Nationwide backs Hestia’s #SupportIsATeamSport campaign and urges anyone experiencing abuse to reach out for support
Nationwide is rolling out domestic abuse Safe Spaces across 42 Virgin Money branches as part of a commitment to tackling physical and financial abuse. It will bring the total number across Nationwide’s branch network – the UK’s largest – to 475.
Safe Spaces are private, confidential areas in branches where anyone experiencing domestic abuse can access support, make calls to specialist charities, and find safety away from their abuser.
Hestia, the specialist domestic abuse charity that runs the safe space initiative nationally, has confirmed Nationwide now leads the financial services sector in physical safe space provision, with 475 locations available across Nationwide and Virgin Money branches, and 82 of these in locations where Nationwide are the last branch in town.
The announcement comes as England prepares for its first FIFA World Cup 2026 game this evening against Croatia. Statistics show that during Euro 2024, police forces recorded 351 domestic abuse incidents classified as football-related – an 82 per cent increase on the 193 recorded during Euro 2021.
Researchers at Warwick Business School separately found that alcohol-related domestic abuse reports rose by 47 per cent on the day of an England victory at a World Cup or European Championship – meaning a win offers no protection for survivors.
Support for people impacted by domestic abuse:
Throughout the World Cup, Nationwide is backing Hestia’s #SupportIsATeamSport campaign, which encourages people to recognise the signs of abuse and download Bright Sky – a free, confidential app offering practical advice and access to local and national support services. The app also helps users find their nearest Nationwide or Virgin Money Safe Space and provides guidance on how to support someone safely. Customers can also locate their nearest Nationwide Safe Space using Nationwide’s Branch Finder.
Alongside its expanded Safe Spaces network, Nationwide offers a comprehensive package of support for those experiencing abuse, including a partnership with leading domestic abuse charity Refuge, providing specialist advice and emergency support. People can also access Shout, a free 24/7 confidential mental health text service, available around the clock.
For those experiencing financial and economic abuse – one of the most controlling forms of domestic abuse – Nationwide has introduced a pioneering in-app payment reference blocking feature, enabling survivors to stop seeing abusers threatening or coercive messages through bank transfers.
Mandy Beech, Director of Retail Services at Nationwide, said:“We urge anyone experiencing abuse to reach out – our in-branch Safe Spaces are here to support you.
“We know that a bank or building society might not be the most obvious or conventional place to turn in a moment of crisis, but through our charity partners and the tools we have built, there are real, practical things we can do to help people get the support they need.
“Colleagues across more than 600 branches have participated in our domestic abuse awareness training, because no one should face this alone.”
Sue Harper, Deputy Director | Domestic Abuse & Sexual Violence Prevention at Hestia said: “Hestia’s Support is a Team Sport campaign shines a light on domestic abuse during men’s football tournaments.
“While football does not cause abuse, we know that existing abusive behaviour often intensifies on match days. Heightened emotions and increased alcohol consumption can escalate harm, leaving victim-survivors dreading match days and feeling unsafe in their own homes.
“This summer, we all have a role to play. We can help people feel less alone and ensure they get the support they need. That means being alert to the signs of abuse, downloading the Bright Sky app, and checking in on those who may be at risk- before, during and after games”.
Anyone concerned about themselves or someone they know can visit a Nationwide or Virgin Money branch Safe Space, text Shout – the free mental health text service – on 85258, contact Refuge at nationaldahelpline.org.uk, or call them on 0808 2000 247.
Specsavers brings World Cup fever to Scotland’s most remote village with dedicated Inverie fan zone
THE World Cup is coming to Scotland’s most remote village as, thanks to Specsavers, the Official Eye and Ear Care Partner of the Scottish FA, Inverie got its very own fan zone.
The village, which is based in the Knoydart Peninsula in the West Highlands, is only accessible by boat or via an 18-hour hike over the mountains.
In 1978, ahead of the World Cup in Argentina, 15 villagers made headlines by digging a four-mile trench and laying a cable just to get a television signal and watch Scotland’s matches.
Almost 50 years on, and with Scotland back on the world stage for the first time in nearly three decades, that same spirit lives on in Inverie. This time, Specsavers stepped in, transforming the village hall into a big-screen fan zone so the community can come together once again.
A 100-inch screen was installed, alongside a full-scale production setup, with a metric ton of equipment ferried across to the peninsula – a far cry from the graft and ingenuity of 1978.
Now, with a population of around 100, the entire village rallied behind Steve Clarke’s side as they took on Haiti in their opening World Cup match, gathering in the early hours of this morning for a shared moment they won’t forget.
The event also featured live music and complementary food and drink as the village hosted one its biggest events of the year.
There was one very special Scotland fan in attendance: 66-year-old John Murdo Morrison, who was part of the group who dug four miles uphill to get the village aerial in position for a telly reception back in 1978.
Just 18 years old at the time, John is feeling the same excitement now as he did then ahead of Scotland’s first World Cup appearance since 1998.
John said: “What we did in 1978 was special and the whole village is excited to be watching Scotland at the World Cup for the first time in 28 years.
“We’re delighted to have Specsavers and their team here to set up the fan zone and we’re glad our digging days are behind us.
“It was an incredible and challenging experience but all worth it to watch Scotland at the World Cup in Argentina.
“Hopefully Steve Clarke and the team can do us proud in America.”
Specsavers’ Scottish Divisional Chair, Laura Baird, said: “It was inspiring to hear the story of John and the 15 villagers of Inverie from the 1978 World Cup.
“The lengths Scottish people are willing to go to watch our national team never ceases to amaze me and I just hope we’ve helped made things a little easier this time with our fan zone!”
Specsavers renewed its sponsorship deal with the Scottish FA in 2024, becoming the Official Eye and Ear Care Partner and extending one of the longest-running partnerships in sport.
The agreement runs through to 2028 and includes continued support for referee training and development, as well as raising awareness of grassroots and local football across the country.
Bookmaker Ladbrokes has teamed up with Senga—a two year old Highland Cow turned psychic pundit. Senga, which is Gaelic for slenderness, is based at Kitchen Coos and Ewes at High Airyolland Farm in Dumfries and Galloway.
Faced with a choice of equally filled feed buckets labelled with the outcomes of Scotland’s Group games, the hairy heifer didn’t hesitate to deliver her verdict and has predicted a classic rollercoaster tournament for the national team, opting for a Scotland win against Haiti, a draw against Morocco, and a loss against powerhouse Brazil. With four points predicted, Senga’s calculations mean Scotland will face a nail-biting wait to see if they progress to the knockout stages.
If they do, Senga has predicted that they will battle through and make it all the way to the quarter-finals.
Senga was also tasked with picking Scotland’s top scorer.Snubbing the front line strikers, she put her hoof down and picked Aston Villa midfielder and captain JOHN McGINN to finish top of the Scots’ scoring charts.
Turning her attention to England, the bolshy bovine predicted the Three Lions would enjoy a strong tournament and make it into the semi-finals, but in a twist that will surprise absolutely nobody north of the border, Senga predicted that the English campaign will end in heartbreak: getting knocked out on penalties.
Neale McQuistin from Kitchen Coos and Ewes said: “We always knew Senga was special, but we didn’t expect her to become a football pundit.
!She’s usually incredibly level-headed, but if she thinks we can take four points from the group, the Tartan Army should start letting themselves believe anything is possible.”
Alex Apati, PR Manager at Ladbrokes said: “If Scotland make it to the quarter finals and England go out on penalties, then we might see Senga becoming an honorary member of the Tartan Army.
“We’ve already seen a flurry of bets on an England shootout exit, because if there’s one thing more reliable than a psychic coo, it’s English penalty heartbreak.”
AFTER this morning’s nervy 1 – 0 victory over Haiti it’s so far, so good – Scotland sit proudly at the top of the group! Maybe, just maybe …! – ED.
McGill’s Buses is getting behind Scotland’s World Cup heroes by temporarily rebranding one of its electric buses as ‘McGinn’s’ in tribute to midfield favourite John McGinn.
The specially branded Yutong E12 electric bus will take to the streets with a playful twist on the McGill’s name, celebrating Scotland’s qualification for the FIFA World Cup and paying tribute to one of the national team’s most recognisable and much-loved players.
The one-off rebrand comes as excitement builds across the country ahead of Scotland’s return to football’s biggest stage, with John McGinn’s passion, personality and commitment making him a firm favourite with the Tartan Army.
The ‘McGinn’s’ bus will operate on the McGill’s N6 service, giving fans the chance to spot it on the road as World Cup fever gathers pace.
Colin Napier, Group Service Delivery Director, said:“Scotland reaching the World Cup is something the whole country can celebrate, and we wanted to mark the occasion in a way that would get people smiling.
“John McGinn has become one of the real faces of this Scotland team. He plays with heart, humour and total commitment, so turning one of our buses into ‘McGinn’s’ felt like the perfect tribute.
“We are proud to back Scotland and we hope the bus helps spread a bit of excitement as supporters get ready for what promises to be a brilliant summer.”
With Scotland’s matches set to bring late nights for supporters, McGill’s is also going the extra mile to help fans get home safely after cheering on the national team.
The operator has confirmed enhanced NightBus services during Scotland’s World Cup fixtures, with additional journeys and later departures on key routes to support fans travelling to and from pubs, clubs and city centres for the big matches.
Services including the N3, N4, N6, N26, N38 and N60 will see extra late-night journeys, helping keep supporters moving long after the final whistle as Scotland chase World Cup glory.
Stephen McGinn, former professional footballer and brother of John McGinn, said: “John would probably be equal parts proud and embarrassed to see a bus named after him, but it is brilliant and sums up the excitement everyone is feeling about Scotland getting to the World Cup.
“He has always given absolutely everything for Scotland and the support from fans means a huge amount to him and the players.
“Seeing ‘McGinn’s’ out on the road is a great bit of fun and hopefully it helps build even more excitement as we all get behind the team.”
Fans are encouraged to keep an eye out for the ‘McGinn’s’ Yutong E12 on the road and to follow McGill’s social media channels for updates on NightBus services during Scotland’s World Cup campaign.
Specsavers brings World Cup fever to Scotland’s most remote village with dedicated Inverie fan zone
THE World Cup is coming to Scotland’s most remote village as, thanks to Specsavers, the Official Eye and Ear Care Partner of the Scottish FA, Inverie gets its very own fan zone.
The village, which is based in the Knoydart Peninsula in the West Highlands, is only accessible by boat or via an 18-hour hike over the mountains.
In 1978, ahead of the World Cup in Argentina, 15 villagers made headlines by digging a four-mile trench and laying a cable just to get a television signal and watch Scotland’s matches.
Almost 50 years on, and with Scotland back on the world stage for the first time in nearly three decades, that same spirit lives on in Inverie. This time, Specsavers is stepping in, transforming the village hall into a big-screen fan zone so the community can come together once again.
A 100-inch screen will be installed, alongside a full-scale production setup, with a metric ton of equipment ferried across to the peninsula – a far cry from the graft and ingenuity of 1978.
Now, with a population of around 100, the entire village is set to rally behind Steve Clarke’s side as they take on Haiti in their opening World Cup match, gathering in the early hours of Sunday morning for a shared moment they won’t forget.
The event will also feature live music and complementary food and drink as the village gets set to host one its biggest events of the year.
There will be one very special Scotland fan in attendance, 66-year-old John Murdo Morrison, who was part of the group who dug four miles uphill to get the village aerial in position for a telly reception back in 1978.
Just 18 years old at the time, John is feeling the same excitement now as he did then ahead of Scotland’s first World Cup appearance since 1998.
John said: “What we did in 1978 was special and the whole village is excited to be watching Scotland at the World Cup for the first time in 28 years.
“We’re delighted to have Specsavers and their team here to set up the fan zone and we’re glad our digging days are behind us.
“It was an incredible and challenging experience but all worth it to watch Scotland at the World Cup in Argentina.
“Hopefully Steve Clarke and the team can do us proud in America.”
Specsavers’ Scottish Divisional Chair, Laura Baird, said: “It was inspiring to hear the story of John and the 15 villagers of Inverie from the 1978 World Cup.
“The lengths Scottish people are willing to go to watch our national team never ceases to amaze me and I just hope we’ve helped made things a little easier this time with our fan zone!”
Specsavers renewed its sponsorship deal with the Scottish FA in 2024, becoming the Official Eye and Ear Care Partner and extending one of the longest-running partnerships in sport.
The agreement runs through to 2028 and includes continued support for referee training and development, as well as raising awareness of grassroots and local football across the country.
FM to attend Haiti match at the invitation of FIFA
The World Cup is an opportunity to showcase what Scotland has to offer as a place to live, work, study, do business and visit, First Minister John Swinney has said.
The First Minister will be in Boston to undertake a series of engagements with business leaders and investors, before joining celebrations to mark Scotland’s men’s national football team’s return to the World Cup, ahead of the match on Saturday.
Mr Swinney will attend the Scotland v Haiti game at the invitation of FIFA, alongside a Scottish Football Association delegation.
A new US Export Plan has also been published to provide guidance for Scottish businesses to navigate US regulations, market competition and trade barriers, with five priority states offering the best potential for growing sales of Scotland’s eight key export sectors.
First Minister John Swinney said: “To our men’s national team, I know I speak for everyone when I say Scotland could not be prouder and the country is right behind you this weekend, and this summer.
“This is a profound moment of national joy. Our long awaited, and much celebrated, return to the World Cup is an opportunity to showcase what Scotland has to offer as a place to live, work, study, do business and visit.
“While I am in the United States, I will be meeting with business leaders and investors to strengthen existing ties and help foster new opportunities to secure further international investment into Scotland.
“Our new US Export plan will also make it easier for Scottish businesses to navigate the US market, setting out where the right customers are, what they are looking for and how to reach them.
“As we head into this weekend, I want to remind everyone to enjoy themselves responsibly and safely. For those lucky enough to travel to the US, please remember to check and follow FCDO advice.
“Come on Scotland. The world is watching. Let’s make history!”
