Scotland's hopes of reaching the World Cup knockout stage for the first time hinge on a complex set of results after their heavy defeat to Brazil in Miami. The Tartan Army now face a nerve-shredding wait as they rely on other teams to secure their place in the last 32.
Current standing
Following the 4-0 loss to Brazil, Scotland have dropped to sixth in the table of the 12 third-placed teams. Only the eight best third-placed teams advance, meaning Scotland need at least four of the eight remaining group scenarios to fall in their favour.
Scotland finished third in Group C thanks to their win against Haiti, but their goal difference has been severely damaged by the Brazil defeat. One favourable result has already occurred: Bosnia and Herzegovina defeated Qatar in Seattle, a result Scotland wanted.
Group A: Mexico and South Korea to dominate
Co-hosts Mexico have impressed and are expected to top the group. Scotland desperately need Mexico to beat Czechia, and South Korea to beat South Africa. Both Czechia and South Africa are on one point, while South Korea have three. Mexico are planning to start 40-year-old goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, aiming for a record sixth World Cup appearance.
Group E: Ecuador and Curacao to falter
Ecuador have been disappointing, with a draw against Curacao and a defeat to Ivory Coast. Scotland need Ecuador to lose to Germany in their final game. Additionally, the Tartan Army hope Dick Advocaat's Curacao do not beat Ivory Coast, which would take them to four points.
Group G: Egypt to beat Iran
Mohamed Salah was in fine form against New Zealand, and Scotland need Egypt to defeat Iran. A win for Egypt would mean the third-placed team in this group finishes on just two points.
Group H: Spain to beat Uruguay
Spain recovered from a shock draw with Cape Verde to thrash Saudi Arabia 4-0, with Lamine Yamal starring. Scotland need Spain to beat Uruguay, who have two draws from their opening games. This match takes place on Saturday in Guadalajara, meaning a long wait for Scotland fans.
Group I: Senegal and Iraq to draw
If it comes to this, Scotland fans will be hoping for a draw between Senegal and Iraq. This scenario would leave both teams on two points, benefiting Scotland's position.
Group K: DR Congo and Uzbekistan to draw
The final scenario involves a late-night wait for Scotland fans, with DR Congo and Uzbekistan needing to share the spoils. A winner in this game would harm Scotland's chances.
According to Record Sport, Scotland need at least four of these eight scenarios to unfold. The tension will be palpable as the group stage concludes.
