Claire Emslie, 32, returned to the Scotland line‑up in Budapest after giving birth six months earlier. The forward, who delivered son Jamie via Caesarean in late December, trained again by mid‑January and featured for Angel City on Mother’s Day. Her rapid comeback saw her on the pitch for a 6‑0 win over Israel in a World Cup qualifier, impressing head coach Melissa Andreatta.

Emslie credits her club’s support and intensive pelvic‑floor physiotherapy for regaining core strength. Within three weeks she began mobility work, progressing to full training by January. Her husband Jonny described the birth as “unexpectedly early,” arriving two weeks before the planned 27 December date, a timeline that forced a swift adjustment to parenthood. She also praised Angel City’s medical staff for their flexibility.

Now back in the national squad, Emslie says representing Scotland and chasing a place at next year’s World Cup in Brazil fuels her drive. The team, already top of Group B4, will meet Israel again on Tuesday, hoping to maintain momentum and secure the group‑winning spot. Her story inspires other mothers.