Scotland face Morocco in a crucial World Cup 2026 Group C encounter at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Steve Clarke's side is aiming for a historic victory against the African dark horses, but they have one injury concern heading into the match.
Injury Update
Defender Scott McKenna is likely to be sidelined once again due to a calf injury. The former Nottingham Forest man missed the 1-0 win over Haiti and remains doubtful for the Morocco clash. Otherwise, the Scots are at full strength.
Tactical Decisions
Clarke faces a tactical dilemma: whether to adopt an attacking approach against the slick Moroccans or revert to a more defensive setup to grind out a result. In recent weeks, he has switched to a more adventurous 4-4-2 formation, incorporating prolific striker Lawrence Shankland alongside Che Adams. That partnership started against Haiti, with Lyndon Dykes introduced later to add aerial threat.
Given Morocco's expected dominance in possession, Clarke may opt for an outball by deploying Dykes from the start, potentially at the expense of Shankland or Adams. Another key question is whether Scotland will shift to a back five to absorb pressure, which could mean sacrificing a striker or a wide player.
Predicted Formation and Lineup
John McGinn, who scored against Haiti, is an automatic starter. However, Ben Doak could be at risk if Clarke opts for wing-backs. In a 3-5-2 formation, Kieran Tierney might start as a left-sided centre-back alongside Jack Hendry and Grant Hanley. This would push Aaron Hickey to right wing-back and Andy Robertson to the opposite flank.
McGinn would then move into midfield alongside Lewis Ferguson and Scott McTominay, allowing Clarke to field two strikers as preferred.
Predicted Scotland XI (3-5-2): Gunn; Hendry, Hanley, Tierney; Hickey, McTominay, Ferguson, McGinn, Robertson; Dykes, Adams
Doubt: McKenna
Match Details
- Date and time: 11pm BST, Friday, June 19, 2026
- Venue: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough
- How to watch: ITV
