World Cup 2026 Archives - Page 3 of 4

Colin Hendry reflects on Scotland’s World Cup return and urges belief in new generation

Colin Hendry reflects on Scotland’s World Cup return and urges belief in new generation Former Scotland captain Colin Hendry has described the country’s long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup as “a great honour”, while expressing confidence that Steve Clarke’s side can progress further under revised qualification rules. Scotland are set to feature at the World Cup for the first time in 28 years, marking a significant moment for a national side that last appeared on the global stage during Hendry’s own playing era, when he led the team as captain. Reflecting on that experience, Hendry admitted it remains difficult to fully articulate what representing his country at that level meant to him. “It was such a great honour for me, without a shadow of a doubt,” he said. The former centre-back, who skippered Scotland at their last World Cup appearance, said the achievement still stands as one of the defining moments of his career, even as he now looks on from the sidelines at a new generation preparing to take on the tournament. Hendry also pointed to changes in the modern qualification and playoff structure, suggesting they may offer Scotland a better platform to progress than in previous eras. “The laws have changed, the rules have changed a wee bit to benefit those teams making the playoff stages,” he said, adding that he believes Scotland can take advantage of that opportunity. Despite the challenges of competing on the world stage, Hendry expressed optimism about the current squad’s chances, backing them to make an impact once the tournament begins. “I really do think Scotland will make it this time,” he said. “Fingers crossed.”

June 16, 2026

Haiti v Scotland – Match Preview

After a 28-year wait, Scotland kick off their World Cup campaign against Haiti, knowing three points could prove vital in their bid to reach the knockout stages. It’s Scotland’s first time back at a World Cup since France 98. For Haiti, it’s their second time on the biggest stage, the last appearance being in 1974. Haiti currently sit 83rd in the Fifa World Rankings. Their road to the World Cup was strong, topping Group C with three wins and two draws in their 6 match CONCAF qualifying campaign. And due to ongoing circumstances, the Caribbean side didn’t play a single fixture of those on home soil. They also impressed against New Zealand in a recent warm-up match, winning 4-0, although they followed up with a 2-1 defeat to Peru in their last friendly fixture. Scotland head into this match full of confidence after scoring eight goals in their last two friendlies, winning 4-1 against Curaçao and 4-0 versus Bolivia. Scotland have never progressed past the group stage in a World Cup competition. However, a win in the early hours of Sunday morning will give Steve Clarke’s side a massive boost in making history. Scott McTominay is fit for Scotland’s opener after missing training on Thursday due to an upset stomach. However, Scott McKenna misses out through a calf injury. Billy Gilmour has travelled to camp to support his teammates after his World Cup hopes were destroyed due to injury against Curaçao. Speaking before the match, Steve Clarke said: “We know it’s going to be a difficult game. “It’s the first time in 28 years that we’ve been here, and Haiti haven’t been here since 1974. They are also a proud nation, and they are going to be 100 percent committed, the same as we are. “We know they have qualities which could cause us problems, but we have to deal with those problems and then we have to bring our best game to the pitch when we have the ball. Hopefully that’s enough to win the game.” With Brazil and Morocco to come, Scotland know that a win against Haiti could be monumental in their quest to reach the knockout stages.

June 13, 2026

World Cup: Young prospects to keep an eye on

With the World Cup upon us, here are some potential young prospects playing at this years tournament. Group A: Hugo Sochurek (17) – Czech Republic At 17 years old, Hugo Sochurek is the youngest player included in the Czech squad and recently became the youngest player to represent the nation. The midfielder has represented Czech at U17 and U19 level and has made 1 appearance for the senior team. The youngster made ten appearance for Sparta Prague last campaign, where he picked up 2 assists. The midfielder is active in regaining possession and capable of covering a lot of ground. He is very mature with the ball at his feet, smart under pressure and thrives in progressive runs and dribbles. Gilberto Mora (17) – Mexico The attacking midfielder, who is set to become the youngest player to represent Mexico at a World Cup, has represented Mexico 9 times. The youngster has already played 53 competitive matches at club level in the Mexican first division for Tijuana, bagging ten goals. The youngster does have previous tournament experience, having played in the U20 World Cup, where he started five games, scored three goals and provided two assists. Mbekezeli Mbokazi (20) – South Africa Mbokazi is a young central defender who made his professional debut in early 2025 for Orlando Pirates in the MLS, and became a key player, captaining the side at a very young age. The left-footed defender now plays for Chicago Fire, where he has played fourteen matches. For South Africa, Mbokazi, in total, has made ten appearances, with four of those coming in the Africa Cup of Nations. Jens Castrop (22) – South Korea Castrop, who played for Germany at various youth levels before switching to South Korea in August last year, is a versatile player, making him a useful asset to this South Korea side. The 22-year-old, who has played mostly in the middle on the international stage and at full-back for Bundesliga outfit Borussia Monchengladbach, started twenty Bundesliga matches last campaign, where he made 58 tackles, better than 91 percent of Bundesliga fullbacks, despite not starting in fourteen of the thirty four Bundesliga matches. Castrop, should he feature, will make his first competitive international appearance. He has featured in seven games for South Korea, all coming in friendlies. Group B: Kerim Alajbegovic (18) – Bosnia The 18-year-old striker who currently plays in Austria has found the net 13 times this campaign for RB Salzburg, currently rated as one of the brightest prospects for Bosnia. The former Bayer Leverkusen youth product has been known for his pace and technical ability, as well as that, he can play down both wings as well behind the striker and is known for his goals which will be highly beneficial this World Cup. Mladen Jurkas (18) – Bosnia A very late call-up for the teenager as it comes a shock for the Borac Banja Luka keeper. It’s been an eventful year for the keeper as just one-year-ago, he was just starting to gain first-team action in Bosnia’s second tier and now, he’s off to a World Cup. The young keeper kept 16 clean sheets last season, after making his debut at just 17 for Borac which gained him a spot in the reserve list but an injury to Osman Hadzikic saw the teenager called upon to feature at the World Cup. The keeper has only ever been capped at both U17 and U21 level with this being his very first senior call-up and what a chance this may be for the 18-year-old. Niko Sigur (22) – Canada The right-back who has looked very solid over in Croatia this season for Hajduk Split may be one to watch. Although, Alistair Johnston looks to be the man to start, Sigur could be a decent option off the bench if needed and as we know, Johnston hasn’t had an easy season at Celtic, with injuries impacting his season. Sigur can also play as a defensive midfielder has shown he is full on energy and can bring pace to the full-back options in which he reads the game to perfection and can time a challenge brilliantly which would come in handy for Canada which is a great option if they need him off the bench. Johan Manzambi (20) – Switzerland The Freiburg midfielder has had an impressive season in Germany this season, netting seven times with six assists for a player who is naturally a defensive midfielder. Johan can also play all across the midfield, including helping out on both flanks and has done it well this season as well as helping his side to the Europa League final, losing out to Aston Villa. He has shown that he is very capable and is a very powerful and dynamic midfielder who intercepts danger which will be crucial for this tournament. Johan has made it very hard to beat and is very good in keeping the ball and in possession which will be a gift to the Switzerland side and will be crucial to any success Switzerland have. Group C Endrick (19) – Brazil Endrick, aged 19, enjoyed an impressive loan spell at Lyon last season, which has earned him a World Cup call up. The forward, who can play off the right and through the middle, chipped in with 16 goal contributions in 21 matches (8 goals, 8 assists). Endrick has made 16 appearances for the national team, scoring 3 goals. In Brazil’s final preparation match ahead of this year’s tournament, Endrick came off the bench and netted, in a 2-1 win against Egypt, giving Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti food for thought going into their opening match against Morocco. Rayan (19) – Brazil The young forward, who is primarily a right winger, joined Bournemouth near the end of January, and has most definitely impressed. The 19-year-old made 15 appearances, scored 5 and provided 2 assists. The Brazilian recently reached 10 goal contributions for clubs and national team in 2026. For Brazil, Rayan recently played in

June 10, 2026

‘HAW YOU, TIME TO GET UP!’- Tennents enlists Scotland legends to wake fans for historic World Cup opener

As Scotland prepare for their first World Cup match in 28 years, Tennents Lager have launched a unique campaign designed to make sure supporters don’t miss a second of the action. Steve Clarke’s side are set to kick off their World Cup campaign against Haiti at 2AM UK time and many fans are facing a dilemma. Do you stay up all night, or do you set numerous alarms to catch one of the most anticipated moments in Scottish football history? If it’s the second option, Tennents have you covered. The brewery have teamed up with Scotland Assistant Manager Steven Naismith, World Cup hero Gordon Durie and current midfielder Ryan Christie to create a series of downloadable World Cup wake-up calls that fans can use on the night of the big match. Each Scottish football icon delivers a rallying cry aimed at getting supporters out of bed and ready for kick-off. Naismith’s unmistakable message of “Haw you! Time to get up!” is joined by Gordon Durie’s classic “Get OOT your bed!” While Ryan Christie sends an enthusiastic “Come on!” from the United States as Scotland prepare for their long-awaited return to football’s biggest stage. The campaign celebrates a moment that generations of Scotland fans have waited almost three decades to experience. While thousands are making the journey to Boston, millions more will be supporting from home, pubs and fan zones across the country. The wake-up calls, accompanied by animated social media content are available through Tennents’ digital channels and can be downloaded directly for use as phone alarms. Tennents’ initiative is aimed at ensuring supporters are ready for the “Hampden Roar, not the Hampden snore” as Scotland begin their quest for World Cup glory. For many supporters, the unusual kick-off time presents a challenge. But with some of Scottish football’s most recognisable voices now handling alarm clock duties, sleeping through the biggest Scotland game in a generation should no longer be an excuse. After 28 long years, Scotland fans won’t want to hit snooze on history.

June 10, 2026

Letters That Unite by FIFA: Andrew Robertson letter from Rute Cardoso

03/06/25, Diogo Jota unfortunately passed away in a fatal car crash, and his wife Rute Cordoso wrote this letter to his former teammate, Andrew Robertson. Rute Cardoso wrote a very heart warming letter to former team mate of Jota, Andrew Robertson as the Scott prepares for his upcoming World Cup in the USA. She said: “Andy, I’m writing to you with a heart full of longing gratitude and above all pride. Diogo (Jota) often spoke of you of the friendship you built. The battles you fought together, the challenges, the laughter, the conversations about football and about dreams. The FIFA World Cup was one of those dreams, a dream that the two of you nurtured side by side with the same passion with which you took to the pitch. When I heard your words and learnt what you felt on that day when Scotland qualified for the FIFA World Cup after so many years of waiting, I realised that Diogo never truly left the pitch. By achieving that moment and securing your place at the FIFA World Cup, you won’t be going alone; you’ll be taking his dream with you too and when you step onto the pitch, I know it won’t be just you walking out — Diogo will be with you in your thoughts, in your steps, in your heart.” Rute Cardoso can’t thank Robertson enough for being that perfect teammate to Jota, always being there for Diogo and always remembering Jota and being a big help for the family and want’s Robertson to fully live his World Cup dream with Scotland. She added: “So today I want to thank you. Thank you for not forgetting him. Thank you for taking him with you. Thank you for turning the pain of loss into strength and into something so beautiful. That’s how we do it here at home too, every day. He would be — and is — incredibly proud of you. Cherish that dream, Andy. Live it for yourself and for him. With love, gratitude and all my support, Rute Cardoso.” Andrew Robertson was amazed by the heart whelming letter by Cardoso and can’t explain how good of a person Rute is and how much the letter means to him, with the fact that letter will always remain by his side forever. Speaking with FIFA, Robertson said: “It’s obviously amazing of Rute to even take the time, you know, for what she’s going through, to write me a letter — but it just sums up the person that she is. Thankfully, I got to know her and the amazing times that they had. Obviously, I’d been to their wedding, celebrated trophies with her and Jots. But yeah, and obviously I’ve seen how heartbroken we all were, but in particular her, when obviously Jots left us. Just, thank you. That letter, you know, will stay with me for a very long time. And we’ve just got to carry him with us. We will always make sure that his name will never be forgotten, that his memories will always be cherished like Rute says in there — the dreams that we’d shared of trying to be at the FIFA World Cup. Obviously, the 2022 FIFA World Cup was when me and Jots really became close. He missed out because of injury. Obviously, Scotland never qualified. And I think we just spoke so much about what it would mean to us both to be at the next FIFA World Cup, and that was the aim for both of us: to get to America. And, yeah, obviously, I’m just gutted that, you know, that was taken away from him. But I think, you know, obviously I’ll carry him in my heart, and I know he’ll be with me come the first game, come the second game, come the third game, and, you know, hopefully beyond that. And, yeah, he’s always there. He’s always something we think about. The memories are always something that we bring up and sometimes laugh, sometimes cry. And, you know, I think that will be no different — especially going into a tournament which is full of emotion. I know he’ll be right at the front of my mind. And, yeah, but I’m not only just playing for me, I’m playing for both of us.” Diogo Jota will forever be missed dearly within the football community and remembered fondly. Gone but never forgotten. WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_zhL2HJtJY&t=31s

June 8, 2026

All SPFL Players at the FIFA World Cup 2026

Twenty-one players who played in Scotland last season will be at this summer’s World Cup, representing thirteen different nations. Scotland unsurprisingly have the lion’s share of SPFL players with eight, as the Tartan Army are set to travel in their thousands to witness their country play at the World Cup for the first time since 1998. GROUP A: Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, Czechia Only one Scottish league player makes the plane for a Group A nation and that is Hyun-jun Yang of Celtic. The 24-year-old, who has been capped by South Korea eight times already and will be joined by former club teammate Hyeon-gyu Oh, was named as the champion’s Young Player of the Year after notching 10 goals and 3 assists. Celtic loanee Julian Araujo made Mexico’s provisional squad, but misses out with an injury. GROUP B: Canada, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Qatar, Switzerland Celtic’s Alistair Johnston and Rangers on-loan defender Derek Cornelius make Jesse Marsch’s Canadian squad for the tournament. Johnston signed for Celtic on the back of an impressive showing in Qatar in 2022, whilst Cornelius did not feature for Rangers since November following an injury and reported fallout with Danny Rohl. Former Ibrox pair Nikola Katic and Cedric Itten will travel over with Bosnia & Herzegovina and Switzerland respectively, and Johnston and Cornelius will be joined by Liam Millar, who had a loan spell with Kilmarnock before covid. GROUP C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland Only Scotland have SPFL representation from this group, with Craig Gordon, Liam Kelly, Grant Hanley, Kieran Tierney, Anthony Ralston, John Souttar, Findlay Curtis, and Lawrence Shankland making Steve Clarke’s final cut. Ex-Celtic hero Odsonne Edouard declined the opportunity to play for Haiti after a remarkable return in his debut season at RC Lens in Ligue 1, whilst Lille summer signing from Rangers Hamza Igamane had his season ended prematurely at AFCON with Morocco. GROUP D: USA, Paraguay, Australia, Turkiye America’s Austin Trusty of Celtic and Australia’s Cammy Devlin of Hearts will face off against each other potentially for the first time since the dramatic climax to the Premiership campaign which seen Trusty’s side snatch the title from Hearts’ grasp. Trusty will be joined by former Celtic and Rangers loanees Timothy Weah and Malik Tillman, whilst Devlin will be accompanied by a plethora of former SPFL talents, such as Tete Yengi, Jackson Irvine, Harry Souttar (brother of Scotland’s John), Aziz Behich, and also Scottish born defender Cameron Burgess. Hibs’ forward Martin Boyle was a late removal from the final squad. GROUP E: Germany, Curacao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador There are no active players from the SPFL in this group, but Curacao are managed by ex-Rangers gaffer Dick Advocaat, and his squad includes Juninho Bacuna, who had a quiet six months in Govan during the 21/22 campaign. Ivory Coast will have Amad Diallo at their disposal, who was on loan at Rangers in 2022 when they made the Europa League final. GROUP F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia Celtic teammates Benjamin Nygren and Sebastian Tounekti will face off against each other when Sweden go head to head with Tunisia in the opening round of fixtures, before both come up against a Japan side with fellow club teammate Daizen Maeda amongst its stars. Three former Parkhead centre backs also feature in this group, with Gustaf Lagerbielke and Carl Starfelt potentially pairing beside each other for Sweden, and the Netherlands will have Virgil Van Dijk at the back captaining their side. GROUP G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand Rangers midfielder Nico Raskin will come up against Motherwell starlet Elijah Just will face each other when Belgium take on New Zealand. Raskin makes the Belgian squad for his first international tournament after making his debut in March last year, as does Just despite amassing over 40 caps for New Zealand already. GROUP H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay No SPFL players make will appear in Group H. Marcelo Saracchi of Celtic did not make Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay squad, though he did captain them on his return from the international wilderness in a 1-0 friendly win over Dominican Republic in October last year. GROUP I: France, Senegal, Iraq, Norway Rangers’ Thelo Aasgaard will be in Norway’s camp for the summer with former Celtic centre-back Kristoffer Ajer. Dundee United’s Dario Naamo had been named in Iraq’s provisional squad after switching his allegiance from Finland, but was cut from the final selection. GROUP J: Argentina, Jordan, Algeria, Austria There is no link to the Scottish game in this group besides former St. Mirren trialist and Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez who fled the country whilst on Paisley because it was too cold. Mahrez’s teammate Fares Ghedjemis is also in squad, after a move to Celtic failed to materialise in January. GROUP K: Portugal, DR Congo, Colombia, Uzbekistan Kilmarnock’s Aaron Tshibola is in line to play against Cristiano Ronaldo as part of the DR Congo setup. The 31-year-old resigned for Killie in February for a third time, and played 14 times as Neil McCann’s men secured their Premiership status for another season. GROUP L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama Another group with no direct links to the SPFL, although the England squad does include three players who were once upon a time eligible for the Scotland squad – Anthony Gordon, Tino Livramento and of course Elliot Anderson who was named in one of Steve Clarke’s squads in 2023, before pulling out due to injury.

June 2, 2026

“It is Testament to How Far This Team Has Come” – McKenna Praises Scottish Togetherness Factor

Scotland defender Scott McKenna hailed the unity of the current crop of players within the national setup as a big factor in the squad’s qualification for the World Cup. The 29-year-old played the first half of his nation’s 4-1 home win over Curacao, making him one cap shy of his 50th. Having made his debut amongst inexperienced internationalists in 2018, McKenna feels the creation of a team has been paramount to Scotland’s qualifiers success. He said: “When we went to Peru and Mexico [in 2018], we were the team playing in a send off for them, and when we were playing Mexico, I think between the starting 11 we had less than 30 caps. “And I think now, we’d struggle to find anyone in our starting 11 with less than 30 caps, so it’s a sign of how far this team’s coming in terms of togetherness. The gaffer [Steve Clarke] has also been very loyal to us, trying to build that squad feeling. “The group has really grown since then [Mexico], in terms of getting that winning mentality, finding a way to win. Even during this last qualifying campaign, we were terrible in games, [such as] Belarus at home. “They are the sort of games in the past we might not have won but we managed to grind through it and find a way to win. So yeah, it is testament to how far this team has come.” McKenna, who was part of both squads for the 2021 and 2024 European Championships, believes that this summer is a perfect platform to erase the disappointments from those campaigns and progress from the group stage. “Of course we can [qualify], of course we can. But that is the test that everyone is setting us just now, we need to try and rise to that challenge. “I don’t think there is any doubt in that at all [that the squad could have given a better account of themselves at previous tournaments]. “I think the start to the last campaign made it difficult, a point to Switzerland gave ourselves a chance, and then the last day we just didn’t quite do enough to give ourselves any chances really. “But we’re going there to definitely try do better.” The Dinamo Zagreb defender, who comes into this tournament off the back of a Croatian league and cup double, also feels that the Croatian culture towards football has helped the nation develop into a one of Europe’s most competitive sides, despite having a similar population pool to Scotland. “In Croatia, certainly Dinamo, they just keep bringing players through the academy. “The conveyer belt they keep producing, there’s no club in Scotland that has produced anything like that, and I think population wise, we’re much the same. “Maybe [it is] a culture thing as well? But yeah, hopefully I can go into the academy, watch a few sessions and see what their process is because they definitely know how to do it properly.”

May 31, 2026

“I Think He Can” – McLean Backs Shankland to Make Number 9 Jersey His Own

Scotland midfielder Kenny McLean believes Lawrence Shankland has what it takes to be the main man for the country at this summer’s World Cup. The 30-year-old scored twice in Scotland’s 4-1 win over Curacao at Barclays Hampden, with new club teammate at Rangers Findlay Curtis and Bournemouth’s Ryan Christie scoring either side of his double. And Norwich player of the season McLean feels the striker has staked his claim to lead the Scottish line in America. McLean said: “I think he can [be Scotland’s starting striker]. “Again he showed a clinic in finishing, that’s what he’s always done no matter where he’s been. “He was at a level where he was way better than for a long time, he’s now done really well at Hearts, got his move to Rangers. “I think he’s got so much more to give again, I think he’ll improve again. He’s so much more than goals but that’s what you want from a striker. It’s obviously great for his confidence, which helps us.” The pair played together at Aberdeen and despite Shankland never netting in the Granite City, McLean could see glimpses of the striker he has became back then. “He was similar to what he is [now], he’s always been what he is. “I think people would have saw him at Ayr and Dundee United and stuff like that, he’s always been that player, so you know what you’re getting from Lawrence and that’s going to be between the sticks. “I think over the last couple of years he has brought so much more to his game, and he has obviously with Hearts dropped into the ten and played with [Claudio] Braga. “He links the team so well, and again it’s something else that the manager can look at, to play him with somebody else, but between the sticks he’s ruthless, and that’s what you want from a striker.” Manager Steve Clarke signed a four-year contract extension with Scotland before the friendly with Curacao, and McLean is delighted that any speculation surrounding his future in the summer has been put to bed. “I think in every interview you see from the players, you know exactly what we think of the manager. We’ve been together a long time, we’ve achieved a lot. “Over the moon for him to still be here for that length of time, but it’s not been spoken out really within the squad. We’re just happy that he’s here for now, we knew he was going to be here for the summer, that was the main focus. “Obviously to get that sorted, it’s amazing for everybody because as I said, everybody’s got the same opinion on the manager, I’m sure.” The Scotland squad jetted off to the USA today ahead of their final pre-tournament friendly against Bolivia on Saturday, before kicking-off the country’s first World Cup match in 28 years against Haiti at 2am UK time on June 14th.

May 31, 2026

Thomas Tuchel Announces England World Cup Squad

England manager Thomas Tuchel has announced his 26-man squad for this summer’s World Cup. Real Madrid’s Trent Alexander-Arnold is one of many big names to be left at home, as well as Manchester City’s Phil Foden and Chelsea’s Cole Palmer. Al-Ahli striker Ivan Toney has earned his seat on the plane despite not featuring for the Three Lions since June last year, and Spurs’ right-back Djed Spence has been trusted ahead of Alexander-Arnold despite breaking his jaw on Tuesday. Manchester United defender Harry Maguire broke the news last night that he would not be in the squad, letting his social media followers aware that he was ‘shocked and gutted’ of Tuchel’s decision. The likes of Dan Burn and Jarell Quansah have been preferred to the former Red Devils captain. The squad in full: GOALKEEPERS: Jordan Pickford (Everton), Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), James Trafford (Manchester City) DEFENDERS: Dan Burn (Newcastle United), Marc Guehi (Manchester City), Reece James (Chelsea), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Tino Livramento (Newcastle United), Nico O’Reilly (Manchester City), Jarell Quansah (Bayer Leverkusen), Djed Spence (Tottenham Hotspur), John Stones (Manchester City) MIDFIELDERS: Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Eberechi Eze (Arsenal), Jordan Henderson (Brentford), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa) FORWARDS: Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United), Harry Kane (Bayern Munchen), Noni Madueke (Arsenal), Marcus Rashford (FC Barcelona), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Ivan Toney (Al-Ahli), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)

May 22, 2026

SNN Sports predict the World Cup

Following Steve Clarke’s World Cup squad announcement, the SNN Sports journalists lodged their predictions for Scotland’s first World Cup in 28 years. Winners Declan: Spain- I’ve swayed between Spain, France and even Argentina. I’m going Spain at the last minute as there’s something about the France squad I’m unsure about and I don’t think an ageing Argentina squad can go back-to-back. Spain have also been absolutely terrific since the Euros and I think they’ll continue that form and win their second World Cup. Mack: Spain- There’s not as many superstars as squads of their past, which can sometimes equate to less egos. They done fantastic at the Euros two years ago. I fully expect them to carry that form into this summer. Fayez: France- I think their strength in depth is simply too strong for everyone else. Liam: Spain- I feel they have so much quality in which they’ll be very strong and win the entire competition. Players like Yamal will be key to their success in winning the World Cup. Top goalscorer Declan: Erling Haaland- Not only do I think he’s the best striker in the world, I think he’s already one of the best strikers ever. Norway were brilliant during qualifying and scored a lot of goals. I’ve got them to get to the semi-final meaning they’ll be there to the end. I can see Haaland bagging a lot of goals on the way there. Mack: Harry Kane- A bit of a cop out to predict world’s best striker to be the best goalscorer. But even by his own standards he’s scoring at an outrageous rate, and will be leading the line for one of the tournament’s favourites. Fayez: Harry Kane- He’s had an incredible season with Bayern Munich and will rack up a number of goals, especially if England can get some favourable ties. Liam: Kylian Mbappe- Despite not winning the World Cup, I think Mbappe will be top goalscorer as he’s done for many years with both PSG and Real Madrid. Dark horses Declan: Ecuador- I don’t want to call Haaland that good and then call his team the dark horses. Ecuador have went under the radar for their qualifying campaign, they look a really hard team to beat thanks to a brilliant defence. Mack: Norway- They’ve got such a strong squad and that’s before you even get to Erling Haaland. They never lost a game in qualifying and will go into their first World Cup in 28 years with a loads of momentum. Fayez: Norway or Japan- Norway were brilliant in qualifying and have a number of quality players, I think they could seriously go on a deep run. As for Japan, they’ve really flown under the radar with a solid squad and have shown great form in their friendly wins over Brazil, England and of course, Scotland. I think they can definitely give the big teams a shock this tournament. Liam: Japan- As we’ve seen in recent months, they look a very good squad as we of course saw at Hampden as well as against England and I just feel they may cause a few shocks along the way. Flops Declan: Germany- Granted they’ve not made it out of the groups in the last two World Cups, but that shouldn’t be normal for a country with four World Cups and one of the best footballing histories. Whilst I think they’ll make it out of the group this time round, I’ve got them to finish behind Ecuador and go home shortly after. Mack: France- I just think everything that’s went on with Mbappe at Real Madrid could potentially carry on into the France setup. they are a side that should go far, but I think a lack of cohesion amongst the players will make room for an early exit. Fayez: Belgium- They’ve always been perennial underachievers. The golden generation never lived up to the hype with many of those players in their prime, I don’t think the squad is strong enough to have the tournament you’d expect from a team like them. I don’t think they’ll have a shock exit like in 2022, but I can’t see them going far in the knockout stage. Liam: Belgium- A team that seems to be declining in quality and a team who I don’t think will do as good as they did in the past. Although they still have KDB and Doku, I still don’t believe they have enough quality to go far in this tournament. How far will Scotland go? Declan: Group stages- The squad doesn’t fill me with confidence, the last international break doesn’t fill me with confidence and our group doesn’t do that either. I don’t think we can beat Haiti by enough goals (beating them isn’t even a guarantee) and I just don’t know where that elusive fourth point will come from. Mack: Group stages- I’m forever a pessimist, I don’t see Scotland performing particularly well. We need to beat Haiti by a lot of goals and I simply don’t think we have the style of play to do that. Fayez: Round of 32- I believe that Scotland will get out of the group stages for the first time. Being one of the best 3rd place teams is most likely. You have to expect the boys will get the jobs done against Haiti (although I think it’ll be a tough watch) and can be competitive in the games against Morocco and Brazil. Depending on how the other teams place we could be in for a difficult first knockout tied I think that’ll be the end for us. Getting into the knockout stages will be the aim for the team and if they do that, I think it’ll be considered a successful tournament. Liam: Knockout stages- I think Scotland will finish 3rd in the group and hopefully continue to progress.

May 20, 2026