Scotland face Brazil with knockout round within reach
10 reported
Scotland’s national football team is preparing to face Brazil in Miami on Wednesday in what the BBC describes as potentially the biggest day in the history of the team. The squad has had no shot on target in its last game and a half and only two overall in the tournament. Striker Che Adams has had three touches of the ball in the opposition box in 146 minutes, and Scotland’s only goal so far came from a double deflection. Despite this, data experts reportedly give the team a high chance of progressing to the knockout rounds. A win or draw against Brazil would secure advancement, but even a loss by a narrow margin could see Scotland through as one of the best third-placed teams. Assistant manager Steven Naismith said the squad needs a proper gameplan and must take risks when in control, but also remain solid against a ruthless Brazil side.
What’s reported
Scotland has had no shot on target in its last game and a half, and only two overall in the tournament.
Che Adams has had three touches of the ball in the opposition box in 146 minutes.
Scotland’s only goal came from a double deflection less than half an hour into the opening game.
This is the first time Scotland has failed to register a shot on target in a World Cup match since 1986.
Scotland has had five shots on target in its last five tournament matches (including the last Euros).
Scotland’s three goals across those five contests came from two deflected shots and one own goal.
Data experts reportedly give Scotland a high chance of progressing.
A win or draw against Brazil would secure advancement; a loss by a narrow margin could also see Scotland through as a best third-placed team.
Assistant manager Steven Naismith said the squad needs a proper gameplan and must take risks when in control.
Naismith noted Brazil’s searing pace and world-class finishers, and said Scotland must be solid because teams are ruthless when given opportunities.
Key figures
Steve Clarke, Scotland manager
Che Adams, Scotland striker
Steven Naismith, Scotland assistant manager
Lyndon Dykes, Scotland forward
Ross Stewart, Scotland forward
Scott McTominay, Scotland forward
Ben Gannon-Doak, Scotland forward
Sources: BBC News
