If joyless Scotland scrape through at the World Cup by trying not to lose it would be hollow: The Tartan Army give a great backdrop but team are devoid of romance, writes CALUM CROWE

The Scottish national football team's struggle to make an impact at the World Cup highlights a broader lack of passion and flair in their play, despite the passionate support from the Tartan Army. This situation underscores a deeper issue: Scotland's football lacks the charm and excitement that could captivate fans. While the backdrop of fervent support is impressive, the team's performance has been more about avoiding defeat than creating memorable moments, leaving fans with a bittersweet feeling of hope unfulfilled. This scenario reveals a significant disconnect between the nation's footballing heritage and its current state of play.