Hampden Park goal hero Caroline Weir believes Scotland can achieve something special at this summer’s World Cup.
Scotland head out to France next week ahead of their bow in the tournament, with England first up in Nice on June 9.
Shelley Kerr’s side qualified for the tournament as group winners and will also face Japan and Argentina in France. They signed off their pre-tournament preparations with a 3-2 win over Jamaica last week in front of a record crowd for the women’s national team.
Manchester City midfielder Weir, who scored Scotland’s second goal at Hampden Park, reckons they have improved from their European Championship showing two years ago and reaching the knockout stages is not beyond them.
She said: “There is definitely a real belief now. The World Cup was our goal, the campaign was difficult, we had tough moments – going behind in games – but came through them. That shows you the depth and strength of the squad, what we’re all about. We’ve got a great team spirit, we work so hard for each other. Hopefully people see that and relate to it.
“I played in every game at the Euros two years ago. Hopefully I’ve pushed on. England are a top team. Both sides know each other really well so it’s going to be a tough contest, very competitive. But, if we stick to what we plan to do, we think we can get a result.
“The squad is in a really good place even compared to two years ago. We’ve got professional players competing all across Europe. We’ve got experience, we’ve got youth – and this squad can do something really special, I think. Hopefully we see that in France.
“What do I mean by special? We know we’ve got a tough group and we’re realistic. But we’re also confident. And we think we can get to the knock-out stages. We won’t look past that.”
Like many in the squad, Weir is expecting a strong family presence in France.
She added: “My whole family were at Hampden and it’s been an exciting journey for them. Nerve wracking, as well.
“They are coming out to France to support me. Like a lot of the team, I wouldn’t be here without the support of my family and close friends.
“We’ve all had long journeys to this point. But it’s been enjoyable – and we’ve now reached a really huge watershed moment for Scottish women’s football.
“I started at a young age. My dad was into football and I used to play in the back garden with my older sister and little brother. Then I joined a boys’ team because there were no girls’ teams at the time, went to Hibs – and it all kicked on from there. My sister doesn’t play any more but is a big fan.”