International Friendly
Scotland v USA
Tuesday, 13 November, kick-off 7.15pm
The Simple Digital Arena, Paisley

The world champions come to Paisley this week, as Scotland welcome the USA to the Simple Digital Arena for their first match since qualifying for next summer’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Victory in Albania back in September secured Scotland’s place on the world’s biggest stage, sparking wild celebrations from Scottish football fans around the world.

Shelley Kerr and her players now return home to Paisley, scene of a record crowd for an SWNT match against Switzerland in their final home fixture of the qualifying campaign, as they begin their preparations for next summer’s tournament.

A team that has made its name in major championships, the visit of the world champions provides Kerr and her squad with the opportunity to test themselves against the very best the world has to offer.

Packed with experience and talent, the USA bring a squad that includes such talents as Carli Lloyd and Alex Morgan; the attacking duo have 314 caps and 202 goals at international level between them, underlining the quality possessed by the world champions.

Team News

A trio of injuries have forced Shelley Kerr into three changes from the squad that made history in Albania, as defensive duo Joelle Murray and Nicola Docherty replacing Sophie Howard and Emma Mitchell respectively.

Meanwhile, in midfield, Glasgow City’s Hayley Lauder is rewarded for a strong run of form with a recall to the national side, replacing the unfortunate Kim Little.

There is also a first senior international call-up for Lauder's Glasgow City team-mate Sam Kerr, who comes into the squad to replace Lisa Evans, the Arsenal winger having picked up a knock on club duty.

USA head coach Jill Ellis has named a 24-strong squad for the fixture, including three players experiencing their first taste of international football.

Portland Thorns goalkeeper Adrianna Franch and Chicago Red Stars midfielder Danielle Colaprico are joined by University of North Carolina defender Emily Fox, who earns her first call-up to the USA’s senior squad.

What to expect from the USA

With three World Cup titles, four Olympic gold medals and eight Gold Cup championships to their name, the USA Women’s National Team is one of the most dominant forces in world football.

From defence to attack, Ellis has a wealth of riches at her disposal. In addition to Morgan and Lloyd, stars such as Tobin Heath, Julie Ertz and Becky Sauerbrunn – a team-mate of Scotland captain Rachel Corsie at the Utah Royals – make the USA a formidable test for any opponent.

Having reigned supreme at the last World Cup in Canada back in 2015, the USA will defend their title in France next summer after cruising through the Gold Cup to confirm qualification. Ellis’s side scored 26 goals in their five matches at the tournament without conceding, a further indication of their supreme ability.

Thoughts of Shelley Kerr

“Having the best team in the world come to Scotland is fantastic and is a measure of how far we’ve come, when we’re attracting this level of opposition.

“Showcasing some of the finest players the women’s game has ever seen in Scotland is another opportunity to inspire the nation and young aspiring footballers.

“Since we qualified for the FIFA World Cup in Albania there has been a real increase in the interest of the team and all of the players are still on a high from the achievement.

“It is now up to us to ensure we are as best prepared for the FIFA World Cup as possible and that will start by testing ourselves against the greatest team in the world.”

Ticket Information

Tickets for the match will be available on the gate at the Simple Digital Arena, with Scotland Supporters’ Club members eligible for free entry.

Ticket Prices

Adults: £5

Concessions: £2

SSC Members: Free

Supporters are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the pre-match activities, as well as to take their seats prior to kick-off in order to avoid queues.

What’s happening pre-match?

Get in the mood for the match by checking out the pre-match mini fan-zone, which will take place in the concourse at the Simple Digital Arena.

Fans will be able to get their face painted in support of their national team, with giveaways and freebies also on offer.

Where else can you watch the match?

The match will be live on BBC Alba, with kick-off at 7.15pm.

Squad

Goalkeepers
Lee Alexander (Glasgow City)
Jenna Fife (Hibernian)
Shannon Lynn (Vittsjo GIK)

Defenders
Chloe Arthur (Birmingham City)
Jenny Beattie (Manchester City)
Frankie Brown (Bristol City)
Rachel Corsie (Canberra United) *
Nicola Docherty (Glasgow City)
Joelle Murray (Hibernian)
Kirsty Smith (Manchester United)

Midfielders
Lizzie Arnot (Manchester United)
Leanne Crichton (Glasgow City)
Hayley Lauder (Glasgow City)
Jo Love (Glasgow City)
Christie Murray (Liverpool)
Caroline Weir (Manchester City)

Forwards
Fiona Brown (FC Rosengård)
Lana Clelland (ACF Fiorentina)
Erin Cuthbert (Chelsea)
Claire Emslie (Manchester City)
Sam Kerr (Glasgow City)
Zoe Ness (Durham United)
Jane Ross (West Ham United)

*On loan from Utah Royals