Scotland face Brazil on Wednesday evening with their 2026 World Cup knockout stage hopes hanging in the balance. Steve Clarke's side know that a narrow defeat could be enough to secure a place in the last 32 for the first time in their history.
Current Standings and Scenario
After a 1-0 win over Haiti and a defeat to Morocco, who drew 1-1 with Brazil, Scotland are in a strong position. A narrow loss to the five-time world champions could see them progress, depending on other results. John McGinn scored the only goal in the opening win, Scotland's sole goal of the tournament so far.
Selection Dilemmas for Steve Clarke
Clarke deployed a flat 4-4-2 against Haiti, with Scott McTominay and Lewis Ferguson in central midfield, McGinn on the left, and Lawrence Shankland partnering Che Adams up front. Against Morocco, he switched to a 4-4-1-1 system, bringing in Ryan Christie to partner Ferguson centrally, moving McGinn to the right and pushing McTominay further forward. This added defensive stability but stifled attacking flair.
Clarke must now decide whether to prioritise solidity or attacking verve. Ben Gannon-Doak, dropped against Morocco, is expected to return as a threat on either wing. Kieran Tierney, who went off with injury fears against Morocco, should retain his advanced role on the left flank to support Andy Robertson's overlapping runs. Christie is likely to start again to shore up midfield, while McTominay, despite struggling against Morocco, will support lone striker Che Adams, with Shankland an option off the bench.
Injury Concerns
Scott McKenna remains a doubt with a calf injury that has kept him out of the entire tournament so far.
Predicted Scotland XI (4-4-1-1)
Gunn; Hickey, Hanley, Hendry, Robertson; Gannon-Doak, Christie, McGinn, Tierney; McTominay; Adams
Match Details
Date and time: 11pm BST on Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Florida
How to watch: BBC One and iPlayer
