Scotland's passionate Tartan Army supporters face a series of late nights next summer after the kick-off times for the nation's 2026 World Cup group matches were finalised. The draw, held on Friday, placed Steve Clarke's side in Group C alongside football giants Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti.
Fixture Details and UK Viewing Times
The confirmed schedule reveals a challenging run for fans watching from home in the United Kingdom. Scotland will begin their campaign against Haiti at the Gillette Stadium in Boston on June 14, with the match starting at a 2am UK time.
Their second fixture sees them take on Morocco at the same Boston venue on Friday, June 19. This clash will have a slightly more manageable 11pm UK kick-off (6pm local time).
The group stage concludes with the blockbuster encounter against Brazil, set for the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. This high-profile match will also begin at 11pm UK time, subjecting players and travelling fans to the searing Florida heat.
Contrast with England and Fan Logistics
The schedule presents a stark contrast for home viewers compared to followers of England. Gareth Southgate's team have been handed UK-friendly primetime slots of 9pm and 10pm for their three group games against Croatia, Ghana, and Panama.
Meanwhile, thousands of Scotland fans are now scrambling to arrange transatlantic travel and secure tickets for the matches in Boston and Miami. The venues are iconic American sports stadiums; Gillette Stadium is home to the NFL's New England Patriots, while Hard Rock Stadium hosts the Miami Dolphins.
Manager's Response and Preparations
Speaking after the draw, Scotland manager Steve Clarke expressed excitement about the challenge and outlined his immediate plans. "I'll probably stay out here for another six or seven days to look at one or two hotels and training camps," Clarke stated, referring to a post-draw visit to the United States.
He emphasised the work ahead, noting the need to finalise a training base and arrange pre-tournament friendlies after the Christmas period. Clarke also pointed out that Scotland missed the chance to face Brazil in the air-conditioned comfort of Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium, adding another layer of difficulty to the Miami fixture.
Wider Home Nations Picture
The announcement also clarified schedules for other home nations. The Republic of Ireland, should they qualify via the play-offs, would face potential kick-offs at 3am, 5pm, and 7pm UK time in Group A.
Wales and Northern Ireland, both in the play-offs for a spot in Group B, would see their matches kick off at 8pm BST if they progress. The World Cup final itself is scheduled for 8pm UK time on July 19 at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
For the Tartan Army, both at home and abroad, the 2026 World Cup promises unforgettable drama, albeit at a significant cost to sleep schedules and travel budgets.
