KUALA LUMPUR – Sabah FC and Harimau Malaya forward Fergus Tierney will be cheering on Scotland at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the Malaysian international hoping the Tartan Army can make history on their long-awaited return to football’s biggest stage.
Speaking to Scoop at the Rexona x Clear Men 3v3 football tournament at MyTOWN Shopping Centre today, Tierney said he is excited to see Scotland back at the World Cup after a 28-year absence and plans to follow their campaign closely.
“Originally both of my parents are from Scotland. Although I’ve never lived there, I still feel some sort of connection towards Scotland,” he said.
“It’s been so many years since Scotland qualified. This will be the first time Scotland has got to a World Cup in my lifetime, so I really look forward to being able to watch them play at the World Cup.”
The 23-year-old, who represents Malaysia through his Malaysian heritage, has frequently spoken about his Scottish roots despite growing up outside Scotland.
Asked which Scotland player he admires most, Tierney bypassed more commonly cited names and instead singled out Aston Villa captain John McGinn.
“I would say my favourite player is John McGinn. He’s probably my favourite player,” he said.
Scotland secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending a wait that stretched back to their last appearance at the 1998 tournament in France. On that occasion, they exited in the group stage after facing Brazil, Norway and Morocco.
Under manager Steve Clarke, Scotland booked their place at the expanded 48-team tournament in North America following an impressive qualifying campaign, bringing to an end a run of failed qualification attempts spanning every World Cup from 2002 to 2022.
The Scots have featured in the World Cup eight times before this year’s edition. However, despite their proud footballing heritage, they have never advanced beyond the opening round.
Their closest brush with progress came at the 1974 World Cup in West Germany, where they finished unbeaten after defeating Zaire and drawing with both Brazil and Yugoslavia, only to miss out on advancement on goal difference.
For Tierney, Scotland’s return carries added significance. Born five years after their last World Cup appearance, he belongs to a generation of Scottish football supporters who have never witnessed the national team compete at the tournament.
With the likes of Scott McTominay, McGinn and Andy Robertson spearheading the squad, Tierney hopes Scotland can finally break new ground and reach the knockout stages for the first time.
While his international allegiance remains firmly with Malaysia whenever he represents Harimau Malaya, the Sabah striker will be among the many supporters hoping Scotland’s return to the global stage ends with a memorable run in North America. – June 6, 2026