Steve Clarke faces one of the most pivotal team selections of his managerial career as Scotland prepare to face Brazil in a decisive World Cup 2026 Group C encounter at Miami Stadium on Wednesday, June 24. The match, which kicks off at 11pm BST and will be broadcast on BBC One, carries immense significance for the Tartan Army, who are chasing a historic first-ever knockout stage berth.
Group C Standings and Scotland's Path to the Knockouts
Scotland opened their World Cup campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Haiti, courtesy of a goal from John McGinn. However, they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Morocco in their second match, a result that has complicated their progression hopes. Morocco had earlier impressed with a 1-1 draw against Brazil, leaving Group C wide open. Scotland know that a narrow defeat to the five-time world champions could still be enough to secure a place in the last 32, depending on other results.
Tactical Dilemmas for Steve Clarke
Clarke has experimented with two different systems in the tournament so far. Against Haiti, he deployed a flat 4-4-2 formation, with Scott McTominay and Lewis Ferguson in central midfield, McGinn on the left, and Lawrence Shankland partnering Che Adams up front. That system yielded a win but lacked creativity in the final third.
In the Morocco match, Clarke switched to a 4-4-1-1 setup, bringing Ryan Christie into the midfield alongside Ferguson, moving McGinn to the right, and pushing McTominay further forward. While this added defensive solidity, it stifled Scotland's attacking verve, resulting in a toothless display with no goals.
Clarke must now decide whether to prioritise defensive stability or attacking flair. The fans are eager to see goals and excitement, but they also want to avoid an early exit. According to sources close to the camp, Clarke is leaning towards a balanced approach that blends realism with ambition.
Predicted Lineup and Key Players
Ben Gannon-Doak, who was dropped for the Morocco match, is expected to return to the starting XI against Brazil. The winger's pace and dribbling ability on either flank make him a clear danger to the Brazilian defence. Kieran Tierney, who was withdrawn against Morocco with a minor injury scare, has shrugged off those concerns and should retain his more advanced role on the opposite flank. His presence will allow Andy Robertson to create overloads without stifling the captain's attacking instincts.
Ryan Christie is also likely to keep his place as Clarke looks to shore up the midfield. Scott McTominay, despite a difficult outing against Morocco, remains Scotland's talisman and will operate just behind lone frontman Che Adams. Lawrence Shankland provides an option off the bench.
Predicted Scotland XI (4-4-1-1): Gunn; Hickey, Hanley, Hendry, Robertson; Gannon-Doak, Christie, McGinn, Tierney; McTominay; Adams.
Injury News and Team Updates
Centre-back Scott McKenna remains a doubt with a calf injury that has kept him out of the tournament so far. However, he has returned to training and could be available for selection if needed. No other fresh injury concerns have been reported.
Scotland will be hoping to make history by reaching the knockout stages for the first time. A positive result against Brazil would be a monumental achievement and a testament to the progress made under Steve Clarke.
