They didn't know Portugal had a Scot: "Don't tell me it's Cristiano Ronaldo?"

MIAMI — Some traditions are hard to miss in football, and the sight of kilts, imperial pints in hand, and the blue flag with St. Andrew's Cross leaves no doubt on the sands and promenades of Miami Beach. The Scottish community has traveled in force to support their national team in this 2026 World Cup, transforming the famous Ocean Drive into a vibrant festival of British accents and seaside chants.

However, amidst nostalgic songs and easy jokes, none of them imagined they shared a direct connection with the Portuguese delegation.

Approached by A BOLA's reporting team, a group of fans reacted with a mix of disbelief and humor when confronted with the idea that the Portuguese national team had Scottish blood in its technical staff. "Don't tell me it's Cristiano Ronaldo? Is he from Edinburgh after all?" one of them quipped, erupting into a huge laugh that spread to his companions.

The revelation of Austin MacPhee's name — the renowned set-piece specialist who is part of Roberto Martínez's team and also works with Aston Villa — cleared up the mystery and shifted the conversation to genuine admiration. "Are you serious? MacPhee is with Portugal? Well, then you should know you're in very good hands," another fan commented, now more composed, praising the reputation of the 46-year-old coach, who recently celebrated winning the Europa League.

The cultural shock quickly gave way to patriotic pride, with fans acknowledging that Portugal's set-pieces are now under strong Highland influence. Amidst impromptu toasts under the Florida sun, the group bid farewell with a good-humored warning to their rivals and a sincere wish for success: "If they start scoring from every corner, you know who to thank! Good luck, Portugal!"