Scotland's final Group C match against Brazil at the 2026 World Cup has been simulated using EA Sports FC 26, predicting a 2-1 defeat for Steve Clarke's side despite a late goal from Che Adams. The virtual match played out at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, with Brazil taking the lead through Luiz Henrique after just five minutes. Scotland fought back, creating several chances, but Vinicius Jr doubled Brazil's lead in the second half before Adams pulled one back with a superb finish after a one-two with Lawrence Shankland. The simulation suggests Scotland will finish third in Group C with three points, which according to Opta gives a 66.77% chance of qualifying for the knockout rounds.
Simulation Details and Lineup
The simulation used an attacking 4-4-1-1 formation for Scotland, with Lewis Ferguson and Ryan Christie in midfield, Scott McTominay supporting lone striker Che Adams. The virtual lineup included a miraculous return from injury for Aaron Hickey, which is not expected in real life. The starting XI was: Angus Gunn, Aaron Hickey, Grant Hanley, Jack Hendry, Andy Robertson; Ben Gannon-Doak, Lewis Ferguson, Ryan Christie, John McGinn; Scott McTominay; Che Adams.
Brazil dominated possession with 61% in the first half, but Scotland created three times as many chances, managing nine shots with only three on target. Ferguson had a free-kick over the bar and a half-volley wide, while Christie's effort from outside the box went just wide. Brazil only threatened Gunn twice in the first period.
Second Half Drama and Late Comeback
In the second half, Clarke substituted Shankland for Ferguson and Tierney for Gannon-Doak, switching to a diamond 4-4-2. Brazil exploited gaps in midfield, but Gunn made heroic saves to deny Vinicius Jr twice, and McGinn made a goal-line clearance from Marquinhos. However, Vinicius Jr scored a second goal for Brazil in the 70th minute. Adams pulled one back with a drilled finish into the far corner after a one-two with Shankland, but there was insufficient time for an equaliser.
The final result was Scotland 1-2 Brazil, leaving Scotland with a -1 goal difference and likely third place in Group C. According to Opta, after 100,000 simulations, third-placed teams with three points qualify for the Second Round 66.77% of the time.
