Scotland’s first World Cup adventure since 1998 is underway! Following last week’s crucial victory over Haiti, the Tartan Army now turn their attention to Morocco in what should be a nail-biting encounter.
I’ve been spending much of the week deliberating on what the starting XI should be for the next match, but it got me thinking about another XI entirely — what would my dream Scotch Whisky XI look like?
I had a lot of fun putting this together, trying to represent multiple whisky regions while staying true to some of my favourite Scotch whiskies I’ve had the pleasure of drinking. Of course, there’s hundreds of incredible whiskies not included here, but I think these selections suit their allocated positions on the pitch (oh, and we’ve gone for a 4-3-3 with this!)
So, without further ado…
Goalkeeper
The goalkeeper position needs to be reliable and a safe pair of hands. Look no further than Johnnie Walker Black Label. A household name that will provide a feeling of comfort and safety between the sticks.
Buy Johnnie Walker Black Label now: The Whisky Exchange, £225
Defenders
While the demands of a full back seem to be ever evolving in the game, I think there are two unconditional attributes — they need to be well-balanced, and have a touch of class. Finding the equivalent of Andy Robertson may seem like a tough ask, but I think we have found them. The GlenAllachie 12 Years Old and Wolfcraig 14 Years Old.
The centre of defence is one of the most integral positions that can be the difference between a successful World Cup and a complete disaster. Our centre backs need to be strong and punchy, and I think we have the perfect combination. Ardbeg 10 Years Old Cask Strength and Ardnahoe Cask Strength. Nobody is getting past these two!
Buy The GlenAllachie 12 Years Old now: Master of Malt, £39.95 | The Whisky Exchange, £49.25
Buy Wolfcraig 14 Years Old now: Master of Malt, £93.25
Discover Ardbeg 10 Years Old Cask Strength now: Ardbeg
Buy Ardnahoe Cask Strength now: Master of Malt, £73.73
Midfielders
Since we’ve opted for a 4-3-3, we need to ensure that this midfield three has age and experience in abundance. Look no further than The Glenlivet 25 Years Old, Clydebuilt 27 Years Old and my captain Glenfarclas 40 Years Old. I don’t think even prime Spain’s trio of Xavi, Andrés Iniesta, and Sergio Busquets could lay a glove on these three!
Buy The Glenlivet 25 Years Old now: Master of Malt, £435 | The Whisky Exchange, £455
Buy Clydebuilt 27 Years Old now: Master of Malt, £94.95
Buy Glenfarclas 40 Years Old now: Master of Malt, £1275
Forwards
Our most important factors for our wide players is to have lots of energy and youth on their side, Look no further than Aberargie Inaugural and Arbikie 7 Year Old Highland Rye. Expect Aberargie to be the new kid on the block that becomes an instant fan favourite!
Arguably the most important position on the pitch depending on who you ask, our striker needs to be the star man, goalscorer, and icon. I think we have just the whisky for the job. Lagavulin 16 Years Old. A whisky everybody knows and loves. And who doesn’t want to get that on the back of their Scotland shirt?
Buy Aberargie Inaugural now: Master of Malt, £69.95
Discover Arbikie 7 Year Old Highland Rye now: Arbikie
Buy Lagavulin 16 Years Old now: Malt of Malt, £66.94 | The Whisky Exchange, £79.95
Do you agree with our picks? Who was snubbed from our lineup? Head over to our Instagram and let us know what you would have changed!
This article contains affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission, but this does not affect our editorial judgement. Prices correct at time of writing.
This article is not affiliated with, licensed by or endorsed by FIFA, UEFA, or any national football association, nor any kit manufacturer.
