The Scottish Football Association is holding active discussions regarding a biennial friendly match scheduled to take place in Boston, as reported by BBC Sport. Following Scotland’s appearance in two World Cup matches in the American city during the summer, the governing body and the state of Massachusetts are looking to utilize football to build upon the connections formed between local residents and supporters.
Ongoing Negotiations and Legislative Support
Additional talks are scheduled between the SFA and a delegation of state senators ahead of Scotland’s Nations League fixture against North Macedonia at Hampden on Friday. While the opponent for the proposed game remains undecided, BBC Sport understands that the fixture will feature the Scotland national team.
US state senator Paul Feeney traveled to the UK this week primarily for energy discussions, but wanted to visit Scotland to maintain the relationships forged when approximately 25,000 supporters celebrated in Boston and the surrounding areas for two weeks in June. The state of Massachusetts has passed a bill designed to strengthen ties with Scotland as a result of the visit.
“We felt that this summer was more than just a football match, more than just, you know, 90 minutes at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough,” Feeney told BBC Sport. “It was a couple of weeks of these relationships being held, and you don’t see that often. And I’m glad we got to experience it. And, frankly, we don’t want that to end.”
Feeney explained that officials are examining lessons from the summer to create an invitational tournament. “To have that cultural exchange to kind of prop up economic development, and more than that, just to come together, have a few drinks, and enjoy each other’s company,” he added, noting that the Massachusetts Senate voted unanimously to support the concept.
Investment and Future Ties
Although discussions about setting up a regular fixture remain in the early stages, the SFA is already engaged in advanced negotiations with businesses in Massachusetts concerning investment in the Scottish game.
“The Tartan Army invaded Massachusetts and I have to say they lit a spark that set off fireworks,” Massachusetts Senate president Karen Spilka told BBC Sport. “They were sorely missed by so many people when they left.”
Spilka stated that efforts to meet people and discuss tourism and economic development could lead to initiatives such as Tartan Day and additional events.
The SFA and Massachusetts state senators will continue their discussions ahead of Friday’s match at Hampden.
