Scottish set-piece coach Austin MacPhee key to Portugal's World Cup

Austin MacPhee, the Scottish set-piece coach whose methods have propelled Aston Villa to the top of Europe's dead-ball statistics, is now applying his expertise to Portugal's national team as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 46-year-old's journey from amateur football in Scotland to the Champions League and international stage is a testament to his unconventional career and meticulous preparation.

From Cupar Hearts to the Champions League

MacPhee's rise began in the lower tiers of Scottish football. He managed Cupar Hearts, guiding them to the Scottish Amateur Cup final, before stints at Cowdenbeath, St Mirren, and Hearts. His career took a turn when he joined Danish club Midtjylland, known for its analytical approach to set pieces. He later worked with the Northern Ireland national team under Michael O'Neill, contributing to their historic qualification for Euro 2016. During that period, he also ran a sports travel firm and a community football club, and even scouted for Mexico at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Impact at Aston Villa

MacPhee's five-year tenure at Aston Villa has been his most successful. In the 2023-24 season, Villa scored more goals from set pieces than any other club in Europe's top five leagues. The following season, only four clubs surpassed their tally, and in the most recent campaign, they were level with Arsenal for the most set-piece goals. His influence was evident when Youri Tielemans scored the opening goal in Villa's Europa League victory over Freiburg; goalkeeper Emi Martínez ran to the dugout to embrace MacPhee, while fans chanted his name. Manager Unai Emery called him a "fantastic creator," striker Ollie Watkins praised his "courage," and captain John McGinn described him as a "great set-piece coach."

Role with Portugal

MacPhee joined Roberto Martínez's Portugal staff in February 2025, five months after stepping down from his role with Scotland to care for his ill father. His set-piece expertise is expected to be a key asset for Portugal, who boast talents like Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes. Portugal's World Cup qualifying campaign begins later this year, and MacPhee's ability to create scoring opportunities from dead-ball situations could prove decisive in tight matches.

Criticism and Recognition

Despite his success, MacPhee faced unfair criticism during his time in Scotland, particularly when he was Hearts caretaker manager in 2019. His distinctive appearance—long blonde hair—often drew attention. Michael O'Neill, who worked with him for six years, defended him, saying, "Austin brings a high level of knowledge on the opposition, a creative way to train, and he's creative in how he brings information to the players." Even a pitchside argument with Scotland manager Steve Clarke at Euro 2024 did not diminish his reputation; Clarke later joked, "He's got long blonde hair, but I'm not going to give him a cuddle."

World Cup Ambitions

As Portugal aims for their first World Cup title since 1966, MacPhee's set-piece strategies could be a decisive factor. His track record at Aston Villa and with Northern Ireland demonstrates his ability to deliver under pressure. With the 2026 tournament expanding to 48 teams, Portugal will face a diverse range of opponents, and MacPhee's meticulous preparation may give them an edge in crucial moments.