Scotland face Brazil in Miami needing a point to reach World Cup knockout stage for first time

Scotland’s bid to make World Cup history reaches its climax on Wednesday night when Steve Clarke’s side face five-time champions Brazil in Miami, needing at least a draw to advance from the group stage for the first time in the nation’s football history.

The Scots go into the match ranked 41st in the world against a Brazilian side sitting fifth, following a 1-0 defeat to Morocco in their previous group game. A point would all but guarantee qualification; a win would confirm it outright and mark an unprecedented milestone for Scottish football.

First Minister John Swinney has added his voice to the groundswell of support building back home. “The Tartan Army has captured the imagination of millions and I know that the team will have been inspired by their support,” he said. “I know they can make history by reaching the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time — the team have the chance to make themselves legends tonight.”

While thousands of the Tartan Army have travelled to Miami for the fixture, large crowds are expected at fan zones across Scotland. Glasgow’s Ovo Hydro and Edinburgh’s The Pitt are among the venues hosting screenings on giant screens, with music, chanting and speeches planned ahead of the 11pm UK kick-off.

Chris Cairns, a 35-year-old from Auchterarder in Perth and Kinross, was among those who watched Scotland’s Morocco game at the Hydro and plans to return for the Brazil match. “We just love following Scotland,” he said. “My dad and I go to all the games, and because we couldn’t get across to America, we thought this was the second best thing.”

John Wight, from Bishopton in Renfrewshire, agreed, describing the Hydro as the ideal setting. “It’s a good idea to come to the Hydro — it’s the biggest venue in Scotland,” he said.

The weight of history is not lost on the squad or their supporters. Scotland have never progressed beyond the group stage in eight previous World Cup appearances, and Wednesday’s game against Brazil represents the clearest opportunity yet to end that record.