Qualifying for World Cup a ‘landmark moment’, says John Swinney

John Swinney has hailed Scotland’s qualification for the World Cup for the first time since 1998 as a “landmark moment”.

The First Minister made the remarks as he met the squad in Glasgow on Wednesday at an event to “recognise and celebrate” the team’s success.

Thousands of Scottish football fans are expected to travel to the US this summer to see Steve Clarke’s side in action, and a public holiday has been announced on June 15, the day after the team’s first game of the tournament when they take on Haiti in Boston.

Speaking at the event on Wednesday Mr Swinney said: “Football is woven into the fabric of life in Scotland.

“The men’s team qualifying for the World Cup was a landmark moment, and the reaction to the dramatic win against Denmark illustrated how important football is to this country.

“The Scottish Government will build on the excitement surrounding the World Cup and Glasgow’s hosting of the Commonwealth Games to deliver new sporting opportunities for young people across the country.

“Qualifying for the finals is an incredible achievement and I’m very proud of the team – tonight was an opportunity to recognise and celebrate that success.”

Scotland’s other two games in Group C will see them play Morocco on June 19 and Brazil on June 24.