Imagine a world where Cher’s 'Believe' topped the charts, Tony Blair led the UK, and a pint of milk cost just 34p. That’s the world Scotland’s men last qualified for the World Cup in 1998—a lifetime ago. Now, 27 years later, the dream is alive again, and the Tartan Army is buzzing with anticipation. But here’s where it gets emotional: could Scotland finally break the drought and qualify for next year’s finals? The crucial match against Denmark is just around the corner, and the stories of those who made the pilgrimage to France ’98 are as inspiring as ever.
Take Ian Stephen from Perthshire, who, at 28, sold his car to buy a 1979 VW campervan for a road trip to Paris with four friends. Decked out in flags and stickers, they ferried across the Channel, clutching wine instead of cash to barter for repairs when their van broke down. ‘It was just fans of all nationalities mixing and having a brilliant time,’ Ian recalls. Their journey wasn’t without hiccups—a snapped clutch cable and a faulty spark plug—but the camaraderie made it unforgettable.
Then there’s Henry Hepburn from Falkirk, who sat his final French exam at Glasgow University on the very day the World Cup kicked off. At 23, he persuaded his lecturers to let him take the test early, then dashed to the airport for Paris. Without a ticket for the opening match against Brazil, he joined thousands in the fan zone at Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville. ‘We got there just as Scotland was awarded a penalty,’ he remembers. ‘It went wild.’ John Collins’ spot-kick leveled the score at 1-1, and for a moment, anything seemed possible.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Was Scotland’s 2-1 loss to Brazil a missed opportunity, or a valiant effort against the defending champions? Kevyn Whitelaw, who was lucky enough to score a ticket to that match, cherishes the memory of attending with his dad, Graham. Graham even called in sick and donned a disguise—sunglasses, a tartan hat, and a wig—to avoid being spotted by TV cameras. ‘The idea of getting to a World Cup opener for £26 now? It’s incredible,’ Kevyn reflects.
For loyal Tartan Army supporter Kevin Donnelly, 64, the memories of France ’98 are priceless. From bumping into Rod Stewart in Bordeaux to collecting an award in Monaco for Scotland fans’ good behavior, he’s seen it all. He’s followed the team to four World Cups and four Euros, and while he won’t reveal how much he’s spent, he’s ‘definitely’ heading to North America if Scotland qualifies for 2026. ‘We’re in a much better position than we expected,’ he says. ‘Let’s dare to dream.’
Steve Clarke’s side must beat Denmark on Tuesday, 12 November, at Hampden to qualify automatically and avoid the playoffs. For some players, this could be their last shot at a World Cup. And this is the part most people miss: Is Scotland’s footballing fate a matter of skill, luck, or something more? Will they seize the moment, or will the dream slip away again? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you believe Scotland can make it? Tune in to BBC Scotland, BBC Two, or iPlayer from 19:15 GMT to find out. The stage is set, and the world is watching.
