Scotland have spent decades arriving at major tournaments with hope and leaving with regret. On Wednesday night in Miami, they have one more opportunity to change that story.

A place in the knockout rounds remains within reach for Steve Clarke’s side despite defeat to Morocco last time out. Standing in their way are five-time world champions Brazil, who appear to be finding their rhythm after an uneven start to the tournament.

Analysis

Scotland still have a chance to make history

The frustration from Scotland’s defeat to Morocco was understandable. Conceding inside two minutes forced them to spend almost the entire evening chasing the game, yet they remained competitive throughout and were unfortunate not to receive at least one penalty appeal. More importantly, the performance suggested Scotland belong at this level.

That may sound like faint praise, but it matters. For a nation whose World Cup history has been defined by group-stage exits, arriving at the final matchday with qualification still in their own hands represents genuine progress. A victory would secure one of the most significant results in Scottish football history. Even a draw could prove enough depending on results elsewhere.

Clarke is unlikely to abandon the disciplined approach that has brought Scotland this far. Expect a compact shape, plenty of work from John McGinn and Scott McTominay in midfield, and an attempt to frustrate Brazil before looking for opportunities on the break.

The challenge, of course, is maintaining concentration for ninety minutes against a side packed with world-class attackers.

Brazil beginning to click

The opening draw against Morocco raised a few questions. Brazil dominated possession but looked vulnerable whenever they lost the ball, and there was a sense that Carlo Ancelotti was still searching for the right balance within his team.

The win over Haiti felt much closer to the finished product. Vinicius Junior looked sharper, Matheus Cunha took his opportunity impressively, and Brazil controlled large stretches of the match without exposing themselves defensively. It was not spectacular, but it was efficient.

That is often a dangerous sign at major tournaments. Brazil rarely need to play at full throttle in the group stage. Their objective is usually to build momentum, preserve energy and gradually improve as the competition progresses. Another victory would almost certainly secure top spot in the section and keep them away from several potential heavyweight opponents in the next round.

Even without the injured Raphinha, there is no shortage of attacking quality. Vinicius remains the focal point, while the prospect of Neymar returning to involvement gives Ancelotti another option should the match become complicated.

Verdict

Scotland deserve credit for remaining alive heading into the final group game and they are unlikely to make life easy for Brazil. However, there is a difference between staying competitive and finding a way to win.

Brazil appear to have settled after an uncertain opening fixture, while Scotland’s lack of attacking threat remains a concern. The Scots have worked tirelessly through their first two matches, but creating chances against elite opposition has been a recurring problem.

Expect Scotland to stay organised and make Brazil work for their opportunities. Over the course of the evening, though, the South Americans should have enough quality to get the job done.

Tip

Brazil to win and both teams to score.