Father’s 6,500‑Mile Trip For Son’s NZ World Cup Moment

A Family’s Epic Journey

Steve and Susan Elliot drove across continents to witness their son Callan’s debut on the world stage. The parents, originally from Annan in southern Scotland, spent 6,500 miles (10,500 km) traveling to see Callan step onto the pitch at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Their arrival marked the first time they had ever attended a major tournament, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure.

The couple arrived just in time for the group‑stage clash against Iran, a match that ended 2‑2. Despite the modest playing time, Steve says the moment outweighed any distance traveled. The family’s excitement was amplified by the presence of two of Callan’s brothers, who joined the parents for the game.

Callan’s Brief Showcase

Callan Elliot earned his spot in the All Whites squad after choosing New Zealand over Scotland, the nation his family settled in when he was seven. He entered the contest late in the second half, replacing Tim Payne, and logged roughly 13 minutes before the final whistle. Coach assessments praised his stamina and attitude, though he did not feature in the remaining group fixtures, leaving his father to describe the decision as “perplexing.”

Steve and Susan felt Callan merited additional game time, believing his performance warranted a chance to stay on the field. The father noted the disparity between effort and opportunity was “frustrating,” yet emphasized the pride they all shared in Callan’s perseverance.

Family Reaction and Future Hopes

The stadium experience left an indelible mark; Steve described SoFi Stadium as a “$5 bn state‑of‑the‑art” venue that felt “absolutely amazing.” He added that BC Stadium in Vancouver was impressive but fell short of SoFi’s grandeur. The fan zones were also highlighted as “tremendous set‑ups” with strong community backing.

Looking ahead, the elder Elliot believes Callan still has plenty of time to establish himself at right‑back for the All Whites. At 26, the defender is seen as having a four‑year window to cement a regular role and repeat the World Cup experience. The family’s enthusiasm suggests they would embark on similar journeys again if the stars align.