The Tartan Army in Miami are in limbo after Scotland's 3-0 defeat to Brazil on Wednesday night, leaving their World Cup hopes on a knife edge. Fans who have spent thousands on travel face an anxious wait to see if Scotland advances as one of the best third-placed teams.
Defeat Dashes Hopes
Brazil dominated at Hard Rock Stadium, dealing major damage to Scotland's goal difference. Despite three points and a minus three goal difference, Scotland could still qualify, but several rival countries have games left to play.
Darren Hutton, 50, from Aberdeen, travelled with his brother Liam, 39, wife Hayley, 36, and daughter Sarah, 15. Darren said: "If the results go our way, we're not going home. We were supposed to be going home on Saturday but we will have to wait and see what happens. If we have to call the boss to tell him we're not coming home, then so be it."
Fans Consider Staying
Liam Hutton added: "100% we are staying out. It's going to cost us an absolute fortune in flights and hotels now, because we are here to stay. It's just disappointing we didn't get the result we needed."
Alan Macphail, 61, Dougie Maclean, 62, and his son Ali Maclean, 31, of the Oban Tartan Army, echoed the uncertainty. Ali said: "It's just the same old story. Just not sharp enough. It's hard enough playing Brazil, never mind gift-wrapping goals for them. I can't see us getting through with that goal difference."
Mixed Emotions
Fiona Henderson, 43, a nurse from Glasgow, is in Miami with Ewan Currie, 52, and his son Finn, 17. Fiona said: "It was really disappointing. I have no words. It's just really sad, we've come all this way and it looks like we're having to head home now."
Ewan remained upbeat: "Listen, we are in Miami. We've just watched Scotland play Brazil at a World Cup. It's been awesome. If this is us going home, then so be it."
Young Fans Hopeful
Oscar Emery, 17, from Glasgow, said: "If we get through then wherever Scotland go, we're staying out. I still have a decent chance." Callum Hunter, 35, a project manager from Killearn, added: "I hope we can still get through the group. It could have been better, but I've had a fantastic time."
Graeme McKinstrey, 46, a heating engineer from Cumbernauld, and his father-in-law Graham Barratt, 77, a retired head teacher, are hoping their adventure continues. Graham said: "I think we could have done a bit better - but we're just hoping we will still get through."
Ivor Davidson, 12, from Stirling, remained optimistic: "I still think we will get through. There's a good few games to go. I think the other teams will get beat by a few goals. Fingers crossed."
