Pubs in Aberdeen to stay open late for Scotland World Cup games

Scotland fans in Aberdeen will be able to watch World Cup games with fellow Tartan Army members after pubs in the city were granted later closing times for the tournament.

The local council’s licensing board has agreed to a blanket 3am closing-time extension during the World Cup, which is being held in America, and even later for the national team’s games that go beyond that.

Premises will be allowed to remain open until half an hour after the final whistle of Scotland games.

Steve Clarke’s side get their tournament under way against Haiti, in Boston, with a 2am kick-off UK time. Their next two group games, against Morocco and Brazil, kick off at 11.30pm.

Restaurants in the city will also be able to take advantage of the extension if they wish.

Scotland will take part in their first World Cup since 1998 after securing their place with a dramatic 4-2 win over Denmark late last year.

Thousands are expected to make the trip across the Atlantic to back the team, and those left at home will be hopeful that the later opening times will be replicated across the country.

Health secretary Neil Gray previously said that licensing decisions will have to be made by local authorities.

He said the Scottish Government would be working with them to “make sure that people are able to enjoy the celebration”.

The Scottish Beer and Pub Association has called for opening hours to be extended for the games, adding that each match should give an estimated £3m boost to Scotland’s pubs.