John McGinn set for first World Cup match with Scotland

BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 1:48 PM

Last updated Jun 11, 2026

John McGinn set for first World Cup match with Scotland

Summary

John McGinn is poised to represent Scotland in their first men's World Cup match in 28 years, scheduled for Sunday at 02:00 BST. The 31-year-old midfielder has had a remarkable career, recently leading Aston Villa to their first major trophy in 30 years and posting his highest scoring season. His journey from Clydebank to international prominence is marked by significant achievements, including vital contributions to Scotland's back-to-back European Championship qualifications. McGinn's success story reflects a continuous rise in his professional football narrative.

Source Links

BBC Sport

Key Details

•McGinn plays for Aston Villa, where he recently won a major trophy.
•He has been instrumental in Scotland's qualifications for European Championships.
•Scotland's last men's World Cup appearance was 28 years ago.
•McGinn is known for his relentless rise in professional football.
•Scotland's opening match is scheduled for Sunday at 02:00 BST.

Latest Updates

1:48 PMBBC Sport — The rise and rise of 'Meatball' McGinn

What they're saying

"
John McGinn was a boy from Clydebank with a "big, round head" and bigger dreams. Scotland's World Cup opener marks a new high in a storybook career.
— BBC Sport

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