Scotland’s first World Cup in 28 years continues as they tackle Morocco of their second match of Group C on Friday, after getting off to a profitable begin towards Haiti final weekend.
Steve Clarke’s facet received 1-0 towards the minnows however will face opponents a step up in school as they return to Foxborough.
Listed below are 5 issues to look out for on their second matchday.
Historical past beckons
Friday may very well be one of many greatest nights in Scottish soccer historical past as a draw or a victory will all however guarantee Scotland of qualification for the knockout part of a significant event for the primary time ever.
Even a defeat won’t be deadly because the profitable begin towards Haiti means Steve Clarke’s facet are already properly positioned to doubtlessly undergo as top-of-the-line third-placed groups.
Formidable foes
Having laboured towards one of many lower-ranked groups within the event final weekend, Scotland know they need to elevate their sport considerably for a facet that reached the semi-final of the final World Cup and has continued an upward trajectory since then.
Morocco are ranked seventh on this planet, champions of Africa, and haven’t misplaced a sport of word since January 2024. Filled with top-level expertise, they signalled their intent with a powerful efficiency of their 1-1 opener towards Brazil.
Likelihood to banish ghosts of 1998
Previous to the win over Haiti, Scotland’s final match on the World Cup finals was a dire 3-0 defeat by Morocco as they have been consigned to a different early exit at France 98.
The Moroccans are an excellent stronger staff now than they have been again then, however the Scots will even really feel they’ll make a greater fist of this Friday’s showdown than their predecessors did on that grim evening in Saint-Etienne when Craig Burley was despatched off.
Formation change?
Scotland began with two strikers in a 4-4-2 formation final weekend however a extra compact strategy is predicted this time, given the calibre of opposition.
Three on the again is an possibility, as is solely including a midfielder like Ryan Christie or Kenny McLean to the combo instead of one of many strikers. If Clarke opts to go together with one striker, there may be each probability Lyndon Dykes will come into consideration for a begin.
Foxborough issue
Heading again to the identical venue the place they loved such a joyous return to the World Cup towards Haiti final Saturday, the Tartan Military can be hoping the magnificent Boston Stadium continues to be their discipline of desires.
The post-match celebrations can be much more euphoric this time if they’ll eke out a degree or higher.
