Scotland name Celtic's Maria McAneny in first senior squad for Ukraine and China friendlies
Celtic midfielder Maria McAneny earns her first Scotland senior call-up for friendlies with Ukraine and China, as the squad builds toward 2026 World Cup qualifying.
Scotland Women have named Celtic midfielder Maria McAneny in her first senior squad call-up. The 21-year-old has previously featured for Scotland at under-23 level, and she earns a maiden senior cap opportunity.
The midfielder will join the travel party for two friendlies in Spain: against Ukraine in Jerez on Friday at 11:00 GMT, then versus China at the Estadio Municipal de Chapin on 2 December at 18:00 local time.
Scotland head coach Melissa Andreatta is shaping a squad that has recently mixed results, following a home defeat to Switzerland after a win at Morocco in friendlies last month.
Looking ahead, Scotland will be in 2026 World Cup qualifying group alongside Belgium, Israel and Luxembourg.
Scotland squad
Goalkeepers: Eartha Cumings (Manchester City), Lee Gibson (Glasgow City), Sandy MacIver (Washington Spirit).
Defenders: Georgia Brown (Sporting Club Jacksonville), Jenna Clark (Liverpool), Nicola Docherty (Rangers), Leah Eddie (Rangers), Sophie Howard (Como), Emma Lawton (Celtic), Rachel McLauchlan (Brighton & Hove Albion), Amy Muir (Glasgow City).
Midfielders: Erin Cuthbert (Chelsea), Freya Gregory (Newcastle United), Sam Kerr (Liverpool), Kirsty MacLean (Liverpool), Maria McAneny (Celtic), Miri Taylor (Aston Villa), Caroline Weir (Real Madrid).
Forwards: Lauren Davidson (Brann), Kirsty Hanson (Aston Villa), Kirsty Howat (Crystal Palace), Mia McAulay (Rangers), Kathleen McGovern (Hibernian), Martha Thomas (Tottenham Hotspur).
Key Takeaways
- Maria McAneny earns her first senior Scotland call-up.
- Scotland will play two friendlies in Spain against Ukraine and China.
- The squad blends experienced players with young talents ahead of 2026 World Cup qualifying.
- Coach Melissa Andreatta continues to integrate players from Celtic and other clubs into the national setup.
Expert comment
Expert view: This selection signals Scotland’s commitment to nurturing young players and broadening the player pool, which could pay dividends in the tougher qualifying rounds ahead. The inclusion of McAneny shows the depth developing in the domestic game and looks to future campaigns.
Summary
McAneny's elevation to the senior squad marks a milestone for both the player and Scotland Women as they assemble for international friendlies in Spain. The two fixtures provide a platform to test new combinations ahead of 2026 World Cup qualifiers. As the squad evolves, fans can expect a blend of youthful energy and experienced leadership on the road to qualification.
Key insight: McAneny’s first senior call-up underscores Scotland’s focus on developing youth and depth for the next phase of qualifiers. Source
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