Soccer
Scotland have already done the hard part – now they can dream bigger
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The most important thing about Scotland's 1-0 victory over Haiti was not how they played. It was that they won.
Steve Clarke's side looked edgy for long spells of their World Cup opener, hardly surprising given the occasion. Scotland had not won a match at a World Cup since 1990 and arrived in the United States knowing Haiti represented their best chance to collect three points in Group F.
The performance reflected that pressure. There were moments of quality, particularly in the build-up to John McGinn's decisive goal, but there was also a noticeable tension to Scotland's play. Haiti remained in the contest throughout, ensuring there would be no relaxing finale for the Tartan Army.
Yet the significance of that victory extends far beyond ending a decades-long wait.
With three points already secured, Scotland's path to the knockout stages suddenly looks far less daunting than it did a week ago.
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The expanded 48-team tournament means the top two teams in each group qualify automatically, while eight of the 12 third-placed sides also progress. Scotland are now in a position where another point could leave them in excellent shape.
That changes the dynamic of the group entirely.
Before the tournament began, the fixtures against Morocco and Brazil looked like potential damage-limitation exercises. Now they can be approached as opportunities. Scotland have banked the result they needed. The burden has shifted elsewhere.
The encouraging news is that neither of their remaining opponents looked especially frightening in their opening meeting. Morocco earned a deserved 1-1 draw with Brazil, but the match exposed weaknesses on both sides. Morocco showed why they have become one of international football's most respected teams, yet they hardly appeared untouchable.
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Brazil, meanwhile, looked a long way from the dominant force of old. Individual quality remains in abundance, but Morocco regularly disrupted their rhythm and created problems of their own. A draw felt like a fair result.
That should give Scotland confidence.
Clarke's side have often produced their best football when cast as outsiders. The team is built around organisation, discipline and collective effort rather than individual stardom. They are far more comfortable springing surprises than carrying expectations.
Against Haiti, Scotland were expected to win and looked burdened by that reality. Against Morocco and Brazil, nobody will demand victory. That freedom could prove invaluable.
The opening game may not have been a classic, but it could end up being the most important result of Scotland's tournament. The nerves that accompanied it have served their purpose.
Now Scotland can stop worrying about qualification and start thinking about causing a shock.
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