John McGinn has given up trying to work out the World Cup permutations that would see Scotland make history by reaching the knockout stage. But the Aston Villa midfielder is certain of one thing: Steve Clarke's side will cause Morocco problems in Boston on Friday.
Scotland's Priceless Win Over Haiti
McGinn scored Scotland's winner against Haiti, putting them top of Group C after one game. It wasn't the best performance, but they secured the three points they craved against the Caribbean minnows. While Scotland were expected to beat Haiti, roles will be reversed against Morocco, who are ranked among the world's top 10 sides.
Underdog Mentality Suits Scotland
McGinn reckons the underdog status might suit Clarke's boys. He said: "Now we face two of the top ten teams in the world. Some of the boys watched their game (v Brazil) on the bus, but I chose not to. We already know their qualities. I think we can cause them problems in the same way Haiti caused us problems. It might actually suit us to play more on the counter-attack and make it difficult for them."
He added: "We know that one point, or better still three, takes us into uncharted territory. It's too hard to work out whether three points will put us through. I've tried, but gave up! Anyway, you just need to concentrate on your own job."
McGinn's Urgency During Water Break
Scotland almost took an early lead against Haiti when Scott McTominay hit the post. At the first water break, McGinn was visibly urging his teammates to up their game. Five minutes later, he latched on to a loose ball to fire home via a deflection. He said: "These opportunities don't come around too often. After previous tournaments we've asked ourselves: 'Did we bring our best?' That's what I tried to bring to the game. During that water break, I felt the lads could do more."
Defensive Solidity and Key Performers
McGinn praised the clean sheet and defensive efforts: "We got a clean sheet against a Haiti side who have scored a lot of goals. Grant Hanley was colossal in those last 15 minutes, absolutely unbelievable." McGinn won FIFA's Player of the Match, but Scotland's best players were Hanley, Ben Gannon-Doak, and Lewis Ferguson. Ferguson said of Gannon-Doak: "Ben was really good. He looks free and that's the stage he belongs on. We had to get him the ball more because every time he gets on it, he takes on his player and is so dangerous."
Tartan Army's Unwavering Support
Ferguson was in awe of the 30,000 Scottish fans in Boston: "That felt like a home game. I didn't realise until we stepped on the pitch how many Scottish people were there. The away kit was everywhere. Our support is amazing. We went for a walk in the city and it was full of Scotland fans. That gave us a buzz going into the game."
He added: "I wasn't born for the last World Cup, so I've never witnessed Scotland playing at this level. To be part of the team that's won a game is special."
