Emslie recalled by Scotland five months after giving birth

Claire Emslie has been recalled to Scotland for a final Women’s World Cup qualifying double-header against Israel, five months after giving birth. She welcomed her first child, Jamie, in December and returned to Angel City on 10 May, making her first club appearance since 9 May 2025. Her most recent Scotland appearance came in April last year during a 6-1 defeat in Germany. Both June matches will be played behind closed doors at Bozsik Arena in Budapest, Hungary, as a neutral-venue decision aligned with other Group B4 teams. Christy Grimshaw receives a first call-up since two years ago after recovering from ACL and MCL injuries. Kenzie Weir is added as a replacement, while Charlotte Newsham and Maria McAneny withdraw due to injury. Scotland tops Group B4 and has secured play-off qualification, with matches on 5 June and 9 June.

"Claire Emslie has been recalled by Scotland for their final Women’s World Cup qualifying double-header against Israel, five months on from giving birth. The Angel City forward had her first child, Jamie, in December and made her return for the NWSL side on 10 May - Mother’s Day in the United States. That was her first club appearance since 9 May 2025, while her most recent Scotland appearance was in April last year, when Michael McArdle’s side were hammered 6-1 in Germany."

"The June matches will both be played behind closed doors in Hungary at Budapest’s Bozsik Arena. The Scottish FA has not explained why the ‘home’ game is not in Scotland, other than to say that “the decision to play both matches at a neutral venue... is in line with the other teams in Group B4”. Unbeaten Scotland, who top Group B4 on goal difference and have secured their place in the play-offs later this year, will first play on Friday, 5 June at 17:00 BST before their final group game on Tuesday, 9 June at 18:00."

"AC Milan captain Christy Grimshaw - who was sidelined for 13 months with an ACL and MCL tear - also receives a first call-up from current head coach Melissa Andreatta having last played for her country two years ago. Uncapped defender Kenzie Weir, who was a replacement in last month’s squad, is the third and final change, with injured duo Charlotte Newsham (ACL) and Maria McAneny (hip) dropping out alongside Rangers teenager Mia McAulay."

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