Scotland's squad for their crucial World Cup qualifying double-header against Belgium has seen a late change, with a classic Old Firm twist. Rangers midfielder Jodi McLeary has been called up to replace her Celtic counterpart, Maria McAneny.
The switch comes after McAneny, 21, missed Celtic's 3-0 SWPL derby defeat to Rangers on Monday. Stepping into the spotlight is 20-year-old McLeary, who impressed in that very match, albeit in an unfamiliar right-back role, helping Rangers secure a vital three points.
While McAneny has two senior caps, this call-up represents a major opportunity for McLeary, who has represented Scotland at youth levels but is still awaiting her senior debut. The change injects fresh energy into the squad ahead of a pivotal week.
The stakes are high in Group H, where Scotland and Belgium are locked at the top with perfect records. The first clash is at Edinburgh's Easter Road on Tuesday, April 14th, followed by the return leg in Leuven that Saturday. Every selection and performance will be critical in this tight race for World Cup qualification.
