Scotland's Tartan Army and Celebrities Gather in Boston Ahead of World Cup Opener

Crowds have descended on Boston as Scotland's national team prepares for its first World Cup appearance in 28 years. The team's Group C opener against Haiti is scheduled for Saturday at 9 PM local time (2 AM BST).

Among the arrivals in Boston are Scotland's First Minister John Swinney, "Baby Reindeer" creator Richard Gadd, and former footballers James McFadden and Darren Fletcher. Other prominent guests include actor Gerard Butler, who wore a kilt to a Scottish Night in Boston Dinner and Gala Event at the Royale, where singer Clare Grogan, actors Martin Compston and Tony Curran, ex-rugby player Gregor Townsend, and broadcaster Gordon Smart were also present. The event aimed to raise funds for Street Soccer Scotland. Scottish Football Association President Mike Mulraney and Scottish Premier League Chief Executive Neil Doncaster were also seen arriving.

Pre-match festivities are underway, with the Tartan Army filling local bars, including the Scotland House at the Anchor Bar and The Haven, where a large flag bearing the slogan "The Party's Back" was unveiled. Fans expressed their excitement, with some noting months of anticipation and saving to attend the event.

In related news, charity fundraiser Craig Ferguson completed a 3,000-mile kilted walk across the United States. Ferguson, 22, began his hike in Los Angeles in February and finished at Boston Common on Friday, a day before the match. He was greeted by pipers, supporters, and Scottish expats. His walk was in aid of Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH), and he reached his £1 million fundraising target after learning the Scottish Government had made a £400,000 donation to his efforts.

(Source: Yahoo Sports Soccer)