Scotland

Scotland

The Scotland national football team, governed by the Scottish Football Association — the world's second-oldest national football association, founded in 1873 — holds a proud place in the history of the game. Scotland played in the world's first international match against England in 1872. The team qualified for eight FIFA World Cups between 1954 and 1998 but failed to progress beyond the group stage on each occasion, often exiting on goal difference. Notable players include Denis Law, Kenny Dalglish, and Graeme Souness. Scotland famously ended a 23-year major tournament absence by qualifying for UEFA Euro 2020 and subsequently qualified for Euro 2024. Steve Clarke has overseen their modern resurgence. The team plays home matches at Hampden Park in Glasgow, with a rich tartan army of travelling supporters.