Cole warns Scotland have 'no chance' as Brazil clash in Miami heat looms

Scotland face Brazil in a decisive Group C clash at the 2026 World Cup on Wednesday, with a 5pm kick-off in Miami under conditions expected to feel like 35 degrees Celsius — and pundit Joe Cole believes Steve Clarke’s side have been handed the toughest possible assignment at the worst possible time.

Cole, the former England and Chelsea midfielder, joked that FIFA had “stitched up” Scotland with the scheduling, arguing the sweltering Florida heat will suit Brazil far more than their opponents. “I think FIFA have stitched them up here. It’s a 5pm kick-off in Miami against Brazil,” Cole said. “It’s the hardest game of the tournament. I think they have got no chance — I have played in that heat in the height of summer and they are going to need at least six or seven hydration breaks to see them through the first half. It’s second nature for the Brazilians.”

Scotland arrive at the fixture having beaten Haiti in their opening match before losing to Morocco. A draw would likely be enough to secure four points and a best third-place finish berth in the expanded 48-team tournament, while a win would guarantee progression to the round of 32. Even a narrow defeat could theoretically keep their hopes alive depending on results elsewhere.

Brazil, meanwhile, drew with Morocco in their opener before comfortably beating Haiti, and Carlo Ancelotti’s side will be looking to seal top spot in the group. The Italian coach is not underestimating Scotland, however, pointing to the experience of Scott McTominay and John McGinn as reasons for caution.

“It will be a difficult game. Scotland has quality, they are fighters, they are well organised,” Ancelotti said. “They have good players — McTominay, McGinn — that are experienced players. Easy games at the World Cup were finished a long time ago. We are ready to play a difficult game.”

Ancelotti also outlined his tactical concerns, noting Scotland’s directness and set-piece threat. “They are a strong team. They have a very clear strategy,” he added. “It’s a very well-organised team. Usually play 4-4-2, long balls. They will try and do a lot of crossing. We need to control the match in that sense.”

For Scotland, the stakes could hardly be higher. A place in the knockout stages of a World Cup would represent a historic achievement for the Tartan Army, who have not progressed beyond the group stage in any of their previous World Cup appearances.