Ryan Christie pursues World Cup dream on same stage as Lionel Messi
Bournemouth midfielder Ryan Christie is embracing his unexpected World Cup debut for Scotland in America as he prepares to face Morocco on Friday.
Relaxing at the team hotel in Charlotte, the 31-year-old watched in awe as Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick against Algeria on Tuesday evening.
The Scottish international admits that witnessing such moments of magic transforms him back into an everyday spectator.
“Watching Messi and stuff like that, it’s incredible to watch that happen.”
Ryan Christie
Surreal moments on the global stage
Tuesday proved to be a significant day at the tournament, with high-profile stars delivering dominant performances across the United States.
Alongside the Argentine captain’s treble, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland both registered doubles to elevate the competition’s intensity.
For the former Celtic playmaker, reaching this elite level of international football was something he never genuinely believed possible.
“When I was younger, I idolised Messi, so to think you’re playing on the same kind of stage as him now is pretty cool.”
Ryan Christie
Overcoming the underdog status
The Tartan Army had not featured at a major tournament for decades during his youth.
This historic drought made Scotland’s eventual qualification for the European Championship under Steve Clarke a highly emotional milestone for the squad.
Now, following a substitute appearance against Haiti, the creative midfielder could earn a starting role against a highly dangerous Moroccan side in Boston.
“Everybody has that feeling that you’re playing on a stage that literally all the eyes across the globe are watching you.”
Ryan Christie
Despite entering the 23:00 BST fixture as considerable underdogs, Steve Clarke’s squad have proven their ability to compete with top-tier nations.
The veteran midfielder remains keenly aware of the brutal challenge ahead.
He acknowledges that his side will likely need to survive extended periods without possession against their North African opponents.
