Pundit Joe Cole has joked that Scotland have been 'stitched up' by the scheduling of their pivotal Group C World Cup match against Brazil, which kicks off at 5pm in Miami's searing heat on Wednesday night. Cole believes the conditions play directly into Brazil's hands as Steve Clarke's side look to secure progression into the knockout stages.
Scotland's World Cup Campaign So Far
The Tartan Army defeated Haiti in their opening match before falling to Morocco last time out. A draw against Brazil would likely see Scotland reach four points, which should be enough to secure a best third-place finish and a spot in the final 32. Victory would guarantee progression, and even a narrow defeat could be sufficient if other results fall in their favour, allowing Scotland to sneak in as one of the eight third-place finishers.
Joe Cole's Prediction: 'No Chance'
Cole does not believe it will be an easy task for Scotland and has described it as the hardest game of the tournament. Conditions are set to feel like 35 degrees Celsius at kick-off, and the intensity of the pitch could amplify that further. The former England and Chelsea star reckons Scotland have 'no chance' against the likes of Raphinha and Gabriel, and believes their opponents will be far less impacted by the heat.
"I think FIFA have stitched them up here. It's a 5pm kick-off in Miami against Brazil," he said jokingly. "It's the hardest game of the tournament. 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."
Brazil Boss Ancelotti Expects Tough Match
Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti is nevertheless expecting a challenge. The Selecao drew with Morocco in their opening match before comfortably dispatching Haiti, and will hope to top the group. "It will be a difficult game. Scotland has quality, they are fighters, they are well organised," the ex-AC Milan boss said. "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."
"They are a strong team. They have a very clear strategy," he continued. "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."
Scotland have been training in Miami ahead of the game, hoping to adapt to the oppressive conditions as they aim to pull off a shock result against the five-time world champions.
