Scotland’s players left their Glasgow base on Sunday morning in emotional scenes, piped off outside the Blythswood Hotel before boarding a bus to Glasgow Airport.
Supporters gathered at the airport to greet the squad ahead of their flight, adding to the celebratory atmosphere surrounding the nation’s first World Cup in 28 years.
A bagpipe rendition of Flower of Scotland provided the soundtrack as the squad embarked on what manager Steve Clarke has described as an adventure of a lifetime.
Scotland’s qualification came after a memorable night against Denmark at Hampden, widely regarded as one of the greatest moments in the nation’s football history.
The squad’s departure was tinged with sadness following the injury suffered by Billy Gilmour during Saturday’s send-off match against Curacao.
Gilmour’s misfortune opened the door for Tyler Fletcher, who secured a last-gasp call-up to the squad following the Brighton midfielder’s withdrawal.
Despite his own heartbreak, Gilmour attended the farewell, drawing praise from teammates who paid tribute to his character and commitment to the group.
Captain Andy Robertson made a point of embracing Gilmour at the departure, a moment that illustrated the tight bond within the Scotland camp.
Striker Ross Stewart shared a kiss with his partner before stepping onto the bus, one of several personal farewell moments that played out before the cameras.
Scotland will now face three group-stage opponents on their return to the World Cup stage, with matches scheduled against Haiti, Morocco and Brazil.
The scenes at the Blythswood Hotel and Glasgow Airport captured the scale of anticipation building across the country ahead of the tournament in the United States.
Fletcher’s inclusion gives Clarke fresh options as Scotland prepare for what promises to be the most significant campaign the nation has undertaken in nearly three decades.
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