In a humorous turn of events ahead of a significant World Cup fixture, several iconic Scottish football figures have adopted a new allegiance, pledging their support to Mexico. Graeme Souness, Charlie Nicholas, and Gordon Strachan feature in a new advertising campaign for Paddy Power, where they enthusiastically embrace Mexican culture to express their desire for England to falter in their crucial last-16 match.
A Shift in Allegiance for Scottish Football Icons
With Scotland having exited the World Cup during the group stage, the bookmaker’s advert plays on the notion of a ‘second favorite’ team. The campaign sees the former Scottish internationals transform into fervent supporters of Mexico, the co-hosts of the tournament, as they prepare to face England at the legendary Azteca Stadium. The match is scheduled to kick off at 1 AM UK time on Monday.
Graeme Souness: The ‘Passionate’ Mexican Fan
The advert opens with Graeme Souness, known for his combative midfield presence, engaging in a playful act of destruction. He uses a golf club to shatter a piñata shaped like the number 66, a clear nod to England’s historic 1966 World Cup victory. Souness then adopts a persona, stating, “We Mexico fans are laid back but we still have a ferocious will to win. Something our next opponents are going to experience first hand, whoever that may be.” This declaration sets a lighthearted yet competitive tone for the campaign.
Charlie Nicholas: Embracing the Lucha Libre Spirit
Former striker Charlie Nicholas takes on a different, equally vibrant role. He is depicted wearing a traditional Mexican wrestling outfit, complete with a mask, and attempts a Spanish accent while extolling the virtues of the Mexican national team. “Being a Los Azteca is all about passion,” Nicholas proclaims. “We may not always win but we will fight to the end. The atmosphere, the intensity, the altitude, I’m telling you, we are a match for anyone on our own patch.” Following this passionate speech, Nicholas is seen enjoying a sandwich filled with baked beans, humorously declaring his newfound love for tacos.
Gordon Strachan: Mariachi Melodies and Mexican Facts
Gordon Strachan, another revered figure in Scottish football, joins the festivities dressed as a mariachi band member, complete with a sombrero. He humorously notes that he joined a mariachi band at the age of 69, which is revealed to be his current age. Strachan then playfully sings “Oh Flower of Mexico,” a twist on Scotland’s unofficial national anthem, “Flower of Scotland.” To further emphasize his supposed deep connection to his adopted nation, Strachan proceeds to recite a series of facts about Mexico, seemingly gleaned from Wikipedia, showcasing his newfound, albeit superficial, knowledge of the country.
Shared Enthusiasm and a Farewell Cry
The camaraderie among the Scottish legends is evident as Souness and Nicholas are shown sharing a drink of yerba mate, a beverage more commonly associated with South America, alongside a margarita, further embracing the spirit of their adopted team. Nicholas, despite his playful antics, is heard denying that his support for Mexico is solely due to England being their opponent. Souness, in character, claims ignorance about who Mexico’s next World Cup opponent actually is. The advert culminates with all three legends united in their declaration of support, shouting “Vamos Mexico!” a phrase that encapsulates their collective wish for the Mexican team’s success against England.
The Challenge Ahead for England
The advert’s playful narrative underscores the genuine challenge England faces. Mexico boasts a strong historical record at the Azteca Stadium, making it a formidable venue for any visiting team. The unique conditions, including the high altitude of Mexico City, present an additional hurdle for England, with manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledging the disadvantage of limited preparation time for such an environment. The match could also be subject to delays, as thunderstorms are forecast, potentially leading to suspensions due to safety regulations concerning lightning.
Should England overcome this significant test, they would advance to the quarter-finals, where they would face the winner of a match between Brazil and Norway. The campaign, while lighthearted, serves as a reminder of the passion and unpredictability that defines the World Cup, and the often-unforeseen allegiances that can emerge when national pride is at stake.
