Steve Clarke has warned Scotland not to underestimate Haiti, following their 4-0 victory over New Zealand in a friendly. The Scotland head coach believes the result should dispel any arrogance towards their first World Cup opponents.
Scotland face Haiti in Boston next Saturday, with the match seen as crucial for progression from Group C, which also includes Morocco and Brazil. Clarke highlighted Haiti's physical and technical qualities, noting they were much better than New Zealand.
“They were good the other night,” Clarke said. “We have a terrible habit of looking at these nations and thinking they are not very good. They are big, strong, physical, and technical. It is going to be a difficult game for us.”
Clarke’s staff attended the Haiti-New Zealand match. Scotland, who have been training in Florida, have now moved to New Jersey for a friendly against Bolivia. The squad is dealing with the loss of Billy Gilmour to injury, but Clarke insists on maintaining normal preparations.
“Injuries are part and parcel of football,” Clarke added. “Everybody has got to take a deep breath and move forward again.”
