(left to right) Caroline Weir, Dundee United’s Max Watters, Martin Boyle of Hibernian and Napoli’s Scott McTominay
Scottish football fans could be forgiven for double-checking reality amid recent struggles.
Following a disappointing exit from last year’s men’s Euros and failure to qualify for this year’s women’s tournament, coupled with a decline in club coefficient rankings, the landscape has appeared bleak.
While Scottish football is never short on drama, positive moments have been scarce.
However, Thursday, August 7, 2025, may mark a turning point.
On this day, Scotland was recognized with two Ballon d’Or nominations – one male, one female – and witnessed heroic European performances from two clubs outside the traditional Old Firm.
Martin Boyle first joined Hibs in 2015
The nickname “The Gravediggers” for a team’s supporters is rarely a positive sign.
Hibernian traveled to face Partizan Belgrade in Europe, carrying the weight of recent heartbreak.
In Europa League qualifying, they pushed Midtjylland to extra time, only to lose to a spectacular bicycle kick from Junior Brumado. A case of glorious failure.
But this time, in Conference League qualifying, the Edinburgh club dominated their hosts – who had been on a five-game winning streak – securing a 2-0 victory and gaining a man advantage.
The hero of the hour was Martin Boyle, the Scottish-born Australian international, who marked his 101st goal for Hibs.
The Gravediggers were buried, leaving them with a significant challenge to overcome in the return leg in Edinburgh.
“To come here and win 2-0 is unbelievable, it took some effort,” said Easter Road boss David Gray.
“We asked the players to come over here, give everything and to make sure the tie is still alive when you go home, we’ve certainly done that.
“We’ve put ourselves in a fantastic position but I’ve just reminded the players that’s all it is at the moment in time.”
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Highlights: Rapid Vienna 2-2 Dundee United
Concurrently, in Vienna, Dundee United displayed resilience to secure a 2-2 draw against Rapid.
In another Conference League third-round qualifier, Jim Goodwin’s team twice came from behind at the Allianz Stadion against a side that reached the quarter-finals last season.
Max Watters leveled the score initially, followed by Zac Sapsford in the second half.
Beyond the goals, United faced 21 shots and maintained 38% possession. Strong defending, excellent goalkeeping from Yevhenii Kucherenko, and a touch of luck were crucial.
Historical context highlights the significance of this result.
Last week, United progressed in Europe for the first time in 28 years, defeating UNA Strassen of Luxembourg.
This underlines the challenges faced on the continent. Prior to this season, United’s last European appearance resulted in a 7-0 loss to AZ, despite winning the first leg.
However, they have given themselves a chance. Despite constant pressure in the second half, they remained resolute, and a sold-out Tannadice awaits next Thursday.
“Outstanding away performance from Dundee United to a man,” said former United midfielder Scott Allan.
“Jim Goodwin will be absolutely delighted. Take this game back to Tannadice and it’s all to play for.”
How McTominay became a Ballon d’Or nominee
Scotland’s Galactica & Ballon d’Or nominee walks in footsteps of Zidane
Prior to these matches, Scotland celebrated two significant accolades.
It was announced that Napoli and Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay had been nominated for the Ballon d’Or. Simultaneously, Real Madrid’s Caroline Weir also received a nomination.
This marks the first time a male and female player from Scotland have been nominated in the same year, and the highest number of Scottish nominees since 1984 (Graeme Souness, Paul McStay, and Gordon Strachan).
Neither nomination is entirely unexpected.
McTominay – Manchester United fans might want to look away – has become a beloved figure in Naples, with fans chanting his name as their team secured the Serie A title. He was also awarded the Serie A Player of the Year award.
In Spain, Weir is entering her fourth season at Real Madrid, where she is the club’s all-time leading female goalscorer.
Last season, she scored ten league goals for Las Blancas as they finished second in Liga F, along with providing eight assists. In total, she scored seventeen goals across all competitions.
Denis Law remains the only Scot to have won the prestigious award, having been nominated seven times.
On the preceding day, Rangers also deserve mention for their convincing 3-0 victory over Viktoria Plzen at Ibrox, putting them in a strong position for the Champions League play-off round.
While Russell Martin’s team were unconvincing in the second qualifying round, they still managed to overcome Panathinaikos over two legs.
All of these results are crucial for Scotland’s struggling coefficient.
This season, Celtic faces a play-off round to qualify for the Champions League, instead of direct entry, underscoring the need for more Scottish teams to progress in their respective European competitions.
While Scottish football provides plenty of drama, intrigue and excitement, there has been a perception that its quality has sometimes been lacking.
However, most clubs in the top flight are investing, attendances are rising, and a positive atmosphere is returning.
Hopefully, Thursday, August 7, 2025, is not an anomaly, but a sign of positive developments to come.