'Just listen to this!' – Scotland back at the World Cup after 28 years

Scotland's players and fans sing Flower of Scotland at a World Cup for the first time in 28 years before their match against Haiti at the Boston Stadium.

For the first time in 28 years, the sound of 'Flower of Scotland' echoed through a World Cup stadium. At Boston Stadium, before their opening match against Haiti, Scotland's women's national team and their fans united in a powerful rendition of the national anthem, marking the country's long-awaited return to the global stage. Scotland's last World Cup appearance was in 1998 in France. Since then, the men's team had failed to qualify for five consecutive tournaments, and the women's team had never made it until now. The qualification for the 2023 Women's World Cup ended decades of heartbreak and ignited a wave of national pride. The match itself was Scotland's first ever World Cup game. The atmosphere was electric as the teams lined up. Captain Rachel Corsie later described the moment as 'a dream come true,' adding that the team had worked tirelessly for this opportunity. Scotland started brightly and took the lead in the 18th minute. A brilliant through ball from Kim Little found Erin Cuthbert, who slotted home from a tight angle to score Scotland's first World Cup goal. The stadium erupted as players mobbed Cuthbert in celebration. Haiti, making their own World Cup debut, responded with determination. They earned a penalty in the 35th minute when Batcheba Louis was brought down in the box. However, Scotland goalkeeper Lee Alexander guessed correctly and saved the spot kick, keeping her side ahead. In the second half, Scotland continued to dominate. Substitute Jane Ross doubled the lead in the 67th minute, heading home from a corner kick. Haiti pushed forward in search of a goal but Scotland's defense, marshaled by Corsie, held firm. The 2-0 victory was a historic moment for Scottish football. After the final whistle, players and fans celebrated together. Head coach Pedro Martínez Losa said, 'This is a victory for the whole nation. We have shown that Scottish football belongs on the world stage.' The win is more than just three points. It represents resilience, belief, and the power of dreams. For a country that had waited 28 years, the return to the World Cup was worth every moment. As one banner in the stands read: '28 years – worth the wait.'

'Just listen to this!' – Scotland back at the World Cup after 28 years

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