Scotland midfielder John McGinn has opened up on the inspiration behind his ‘goggle’ celebration in their 1-0 win over Haiti last week.
The Tartan Army began their campaign at their first World Cup tournament since 1998 with a narrow 1-0 win over the North American side last weekend.
McGinn scored the only goal of that encounter to secure maximum points and revealed that his celebration was inspired by his nephew Jack, who needs goggles to play football because of his poor eyesight.
“It was for the last major tournament when I didn’t score”, McGinn said.
“It was at the time where Jack was having serious discussions about his eyesight. It’s probably as strong a lens as you can get for a child. When he takes his glasses off, you can see how much he struggles.
“But it’s not just the reaction from him, and allowing him to be more comfortable playing football with his pals. It’s the awareness for young kids all around Scotland, all around the world.”
Scotland currently top group C ahead of both Brazil and Morocco and can seal a place in the Round of 32 with just a single point from their remaining two matches.
Steve Clarke’s men next face African champions Morocco in a tough test at the Boston Stadium in Foxborough on Friday.
“A lot of parents have got in contact and said ‘you’ve inspired my son to keep his goggles on’ or ‘you’ve inspired my kids to have their eyes tested’”, McGinn continued.
“If my celebration brings awareness to that then that’s the main thing. To do it on the world’s biggest stage was special.”
Scotland will then face five-time World champions Brazil in their final group game at the Miami Stadium on the 24th of June.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
