First Minister says women's national team 'can hold heads high'

20 June 2019, 07:00

Scotland's women's football team can "hold their heads high", the First Minister has said following their heart-breaking exit from the World Cup.

Nicola Sturgeon said Shelley Kerr's side will be disappointed at the outcome, but insisted the footballers have inspired young people around the country to play the game.

Scotland let a three-goal lead slip to draw 3-3 with Argentina - a result which was not enough to take them to the knockout stages of the tournament in France.

Following the match, Ms Sturgeon thanked the national team for their inspiration.

She said: "This was a heart-breaking result after such a strong performance from Scotland.

"The women's team have taken Scotland to our first World Cup in 21 years and we should all be proud of their efforts.

"While I know how disappointed Shelley and her team will be to go out of the tournament in the cruellest of fashions, they can hold their heads high.

"The team played some great football during the tournament. They have inspired young people across the country to get out and play our national game and I know that this will only make Scotland's women's team stronger and more successful in the future."