Scotland Calls Up Claire Emslie for Women's World Cup Qualifiers After Motherhood
Claire Emslie makes her return to the Scotland squad for the final Women's World Cup qualifying double-header against Israel, just five months after giving birth to her first child, Jamie, in December. The Angel City forward had her first match back with her club on 10 May—coinciding with Mother's Day in the United States—marking her return after an absence since 9 May 2025. Emslie last donned the national jersey in April 2022, during a tough 6-1 defeat to Germany. Both June matches will occur behind closed doors at Bozsik Arena in Budapest, Hungary. The Scottish FA has not clarified why these "home" games are being held outside Scotland, but noted the decision aligns with other teams in Group B4. In addition to Emslie, Christy Grimshaw, captain of AC Milan, receives a call-up after being sidelined for 13 months due to an ACL and MCL tear. This marks her first appearance for the national team since two years ago. Kenzie Weir, an uncapped defender, also joins the squad, replacing injured players Charlotte Newsham (ACL) and Maria McAneny (hip), along with Mia McAulay from Rangers. Currently, Scotland tops Group B4 on goal difference and has already secured a spot in the play-offs later this year. The team will first face Israel on Friday, 5 June at 17:00 BST, followed by their final group game on Tuesday, 9 June at 18:00.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-05-20