Soccer
Scotland look to make history as they return to the global stage
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This World Cup is notable for a whole plethora of reasons. It's the biggest-ever tournament, the first time it's been hosted by three different nations and a chance for several new names to make their debut on the world stage.
But it's also notable because for the first time since 1998, Scotland will finally be part of the festivities once again.
It's been nearly 30 years since the Tartan Army got to enjoy a World Cup run, where generations have missed seeing the national team sit amongst the top table and their fans light up tournaments in a flurry of kilts and sporrans.
Their qualification means we're now looking at one of the most successful Scottish sides in history, having also made it to the last two Euros. So, given their recent upturn and the expanded format, are Steve Clarke's men more than ever better equipped to make World Cup history for the national team?
The last World Cup Scotland qualified for
All the best goals from France '98
Scots place
Scotland have appeared at eight World Cup finals in their history, starting with 1954 and including a run from 1974 which saw them appear at six finals in a row.
They've played their part in memorable moments, too. Archie Gemmill's wiggle round the Dutch defence in 1978, the thrashing of New Zealand in Spain and beating Sweden at Italia 90 are all part of their World Cup folklore.
However, what they've failed to do at a single major tournament is advance from the group stage. They've come close, but 2026 may present their best chance yet of finally getting over the line.
Drawn in a group with Brazil and Morocco - just like they were at France '98 - as well as Haiti, and with third place possibly securing a passage to the knockout rounds, Steve Clarke's men believe they can target a place in the knockout rounds.
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"I just think getting out of the group stage would be amazing. That'd be brilliant," former international Dominic Matteo exclusivly told DAZN News thanks to BetSelect.co.uk
"I think they've got a good, decent squad. I think Steve Clarke's done a brilliant job with the team. If Scotland were to get to the quarters, that'd be incredible. It really would. I'm not saying that's 100% gonna happen, but why not?"
What goes in Scotland's favour is their fixtures. They play Haiti first, who, unless they suffer a shock as they did in the opening game of Italia 90 when they were beaten by Costa Rica, they should beat. Then the test would be picking up at least a point against Morocco and Brazil, which could be enough to finally fulfil their remit.
"No disrespect to Haiti, but you expect to beat them." Matteo agrees.
"But Morocco was one of the best teams last year, and then of course, there is Brazil. If we could get 4 points in the group stages, that might just be enough. Yeah, so I'm gonna go beat Haiti, draw against Morocco, and whatever happens against Brazil is a bonus."
Clarke's men
What Scotland does have, too, is a squad boasting an established core of players, plying their trade at top Champions League clubs.
Scott McTominay is the poster boy and talisman, a midfielder revitalised at Napoli, where he was named Serie A's MVP in 2025, who's taken that form onto the international stage.
His incredible bicycle-kick that set his side on their way to victory in their qualifying showdown with Denmark was the perfect example of how the 29-year-old has become Clarke's clutch player.
Alongside him is Jon McGinn, often the unsung hero for the Scots. Matteo believes his role will be key for the Scots in the States.
He added, "You need a midfield player who can get hold of the ball, use their strength, but also has good distribution. McGinn and McTominay could make up a really good partnership in that area. I think Andy Robertson, as a captain, has to lead by example, which he will."
Robertson will bring all his experience to a defence that also includes Scott McKenna and Kiernan Tierney, with the team's only real concern being where the goals will come from if it's not McTominay.
Scotland's strikers boast moments and exuberate hard work, but they lack a consistent goal threat.
Lyndon Dykes, Che Adams remain Clarke's favourites, but maybe this could be the tournament for Lawrence Shankland to make a name for himself, especially off the back of Hearts' title-chasing season.
History-makers
Nevertheless, there is enough quality in the Scottish squad for them to believe in doing what no team has ever done previously on the international stage.
Steve Clarke is already the national team's most successful manager, given his record in taking his country to major tournaments. Now, he gets to lead a team that could cement that status yet further.
A World Cup always feels more alive when Scotland roll into a final, but this Scotland team are here for more than to just to add to the vibes.
This is one detertimed to make history,
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