Scotland manager Steve Clarke is determined to banish the 'three-word World Cup taunt' that has haunted the nation since 1982, as his side prepares to face Brazil in Miami. Clarke believes his team can create a moment of immortality that goes beyond the infamous 'making them angry' line, which originated from Dave Narey's goal in Seville.
Clarke's Bold Ambition
Clarke acknowledged the weight of history but stressed the desire for a different outcome. 'I wouldn't mind taking the lead, I've got to be honest,' he said. 'If we take the lead in the game, I will be happy. But what we don't want is an iconic moment only then to suffer a defeat like that one. You want the iconic moment like the ones we had at Hampden against Denmark to qualify for the World Cup. They're the real iconic moments.'
Lessons from Morocco
Scotland failed to register a single shot on target in their previous match against Morocco, a performance that drew criticism. Clarke admitted frustration but remained optimistic. 'We didn't create that clean chance. If we can create one or two clean chances we will score the goals. You are only talking one or two little scenarios where the last pass is a little bit better or the last cross is just a little bit better. Those little moments can turn into a goal.'
Facing Brazil and Ancelotti
Clarke will go head-to-head with Carlo Ancelotti, one of football's most decorated managers. However, Clarke downplayed the personal duel. 'He's one of the best coaches ever, having won everything. But hopefully he'll have an off night against us. What gets me excited is the chance to put our players on the pitch, on this stage, and say, "C'mon guys, let's do it for the country!"'
Players Ready to Live the Dream
Clarke expressed confidence in his squad's ability to rise to the occasion. 'We've all been talking about living the dream. And now we are all here, actually living that dream. We're all at a World Cup after however many years away. You go to Miami to play against Brazil as a Scottish player. It doesn't come much bigger than that. So let's just go and express ourselves and see what we can do.'
