Scotland's World Cup Vision Takes Shape

The Scottish Football Association has already begun groundwork for a potential UK-hosted FIFA Women's World Cup in 2035, according to interim head coach Mick McArdle. This ambitious project comes as Scotland prepares for their crucial UEFA Women's Nations League clash against Germany at Tannadice Park.

Historic Joint Bid Gains Momentum

FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed that the joint expression of interest from England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales currently stands as the only valid bid received by the governing body's deadline. McArdle, who serves dual roles as both interim coach and head of elite women's football, emphasized the long-term planning already underway:

"We're two and a half years into that cycle. The association's foresight in creating my current role means we've already started preparations. While qualification isn't automatic, this serves as massive inspiration for our entire pathway system."

Learning from England's Euro Success

Scotland, who made their World Cup debut in 2019 after decades of near-misses, aims to capitalize on the momentum generated by England's successful hosting of Euro 2022. McArdle noted:

"We witnessed how hosting transformed English women's football overnight. A World Cup would have similar transformative effects across our Scottish game."

Immediate Challenges on the Pitch

First, Scotland focuses on their Nations League campaign:

• Current Record: Lost opening matches to Netherlands and Austria
• Upcoming Fixtures: Germany double-header (home/away)
• Historical Context: Winless in three previous meetings against Germany

The interim coach views these high-caliber matches as crucial benchmarks for measuring Scotland's progress toward consistent major tournament qualification.

Scotland Squad Highlights:

• Star Players: Caroline Weir (Real Madrid), Erin Cuthbert (Chelsea)
• Goalkeeping Options: Sandy MacIver (Washington Spirit)
• Emerging Talent: Kirsty MacLean (Rangers), Emma Watson (Everton loanee)

Pathway to 2035: Building Sustainable Success

McArdle stressed that hosting potential must align with on-field development:

• Enhancing youth academy structures
• Increasing professional opportunities domestically
• Maintaining competitive edge in qualifying campaigns

Did You Know? The last Scotland-Germany meeting ended 3-0 to the Germans in a 2013 friendly - a result the Scots aim to improve upon during Friday's Nations League encounter.

"These matches against elite opposition show us exactly where we need to be," McArdle added, highlighting the importance of the Germany fixtures for long-term planning.