Joe Cole has claimed that Scotland have been 'stitched up' by the scheduling of their crucial World Cup Group C match against Brazil, which kicks off at 5pm local time in Miami tonight. The former England international believes the intense heat will make it nearly impossible for Steve Clarke's side to compete with the South American giants.
Scotland's historic opportunity
A victory against Brazil would see Scotland advance beyond the World Cup group stage for the first time in their history. A draw would also almost certainly guarantee progression, and even a defeat could be enough depending on goal difference in other results. The match at Miami Stadium is the pivotal fixture in Group C, with Scotland needing at least a point to keep their fate in their own hands.
Speaking on the Rest is Football podcast, Cole said: 'Survive. I think FIFA have stitched them up here. It's a 5pm kick-off in Miami against Brazil, it's the hardest game of the tournament.' He added: 'I think they have got no chance, I have played in that heat in the height of summer and they are going to need at least six or seven hydration breaks to see them through the first half. It's second nature for the Brazilians.'
Historical record against Brazil
Scotland have never beaten Brazil in 10 attempts, recording eight defeats and two draws. The two sides last met in a friendly in 2011, which Brazil won 2-0. Despite the daunting record, Scotland boss Steve Clarke remains optimistic. He said: 'For me, as a coach, to be involved in a World Cup match against Brazil, one of the most iconic teams in the world…first memories of the World Cup for me were probably the 1970 Brazil team. They were absolutely fantastic. They were great to see for a young boy growing up. And you grow up with that love of Brazil. But tomorrow night, we have to not love Brazil and love Scotland more.'
Clarke acknowledged Brazil's attacking tradition but noted their qualifying campaign was less dominant: 'In qualifying, they did enough to qualify. Maybe they wanted to be better and finish higher in the section. To finish fifth, maybe a disappointment. But I think they've shown in the matches so far in this tournament that they can be a big threat and I'm sure they expect to be minimum last four in the competition.'
Ancelotti's respect for Scotland
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti dismissed the idea of an easy match, saying: 'It will be a difficult game. Scotland has quality, they are fighters, they are well organised. They have good players, [Scott] McTominay, [John] McGinn that are experienced players. Easy games at the World Cup were finished a long time ago. We are ready to play a difficult game.' He highlighted Scotland's tactical approach: 'They are a strong team. They have a very clear strategy. It's a very well-organised team. Usually play 4-4-2, long balls. They will try and do a lot of crossing. We need to control the match in that sense.'
The match kicks off at 5pm local time in Miami, where temperatures are expected to be in the high 80s Fahrenheit (around 31°C) with high humidity, adding to the challenge for the Scottish players.
