Still watching Kenny McLean’s halfway-line wonder? Same here. Replay it, enjoy the commentary, then take a breath — and start thinking about what qualification actually means.
For younger fans this is uncharted territory: Scotland’s men at the World Cup for the first time in our lifetimes. Savour the moment, yes — but also ask the practical questions. BBC Sport Scotland answers the key ones as attention turns to North America.
Where are we going? And how do we get there?
This isn’t a short hop to a nearby country — it’s a trip across a vast continent. The group stages are split into west, central and east regions. Distances are huge: more than 1,200 miles between Los Angeles and Vancouver; 1,700 miles between Kansas City and Mexico City; 1,500 miles between Miami and Boston. The draw on 5 December will reveal which region Scotland is in.
Travel packages are already on sale, from short city breaks to longer multi-city itineraries. Flights can be expensive but available; example fares from Edinburgh to Philadelphia around £700 return for a short stay were being advertised. Plan logistics early — multiple cities, long internal flights and time zones all matter.
What’s the song?
The World Cup anthem is always a big deal. From past efforts like Del Amitri’s 1998 track to more recent hopes for a memorable tune, fans will be waiting to see who provides Scotland’s soundtrack. Plenty of Scottish names get talked about — Paulo Nutini, Lewis Capaldi, Susan Boyle, Sharleen Spiteri, Belle and Sebastian, Biffy Clyro, Mogwai, Calvin Harris and of course The Proclaimers — but who will be chosen remains to be seen.
What’s the score with tickets?
Tickets are in high demand and prices can be eye-watering. FIFA’s early ticket sales have already happened; more public sales will follow after the draw on 5 December. Each participating association gets allocations too, often via travel clubs — being signed up helps but doesn’t guarantee tickets. Keep an eye on FIFA’s official site and national association announcements for further sales and packages.
What about visas/ESTAs?
To enter the USA you’ll need an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) applied for online; it’s valid for multiple trips over 90 days. If you don’t have the right passport you may need a visa, which requires applying via the US Embassy processes. Mexico currently has no visa requirement for many travelers, and Canada requires an eTA (electronic Travel Authorization) if flying in. Check requirements early and apply well before travel.
The dream/nightmare group?
The three host nations (USA, Canada, Mexico) go into pot one for the draw, and many fans might prefer drawing one of them. Scotland can only face one other European nation in the group, so non-European teams from pot two and three will be likelier opponents — possibilities include Morocco, Colombia, Uruguay, Japan, Senegal, Iran, South Korea, Ecuador and Australia. Pot two also contains strong European sides like Croatia, Switzerland and Austria, which many would rather avoid. A kinder draw would, of course, be welcome.
What happens in March?
March will include the play-offs for teams still seeking qualification — not Scotland now — and the national team will still gather for friendlies. Steve Clarke is likely to arrange tests against quality opponents to prepare for the World Cup; the Tartan Army will get chances to see the side before departure. March will also bring the reveal of the World Cup kit and other build-up material, plus the sticker album and fan events. Excitement will ramp up as the tournament approaches.
Enjoy the celebrations, plan ahead for travel, tickets and travel documents, and keep an eye on the draw on 5 December — that will shape much of the logistics and prospects for Scotland at the World Cup.
