Tartan Army Heads to Miami for Brazil Match After Scotland's 1-0 Loss to Morocco

Q: After a 28-year wait, can Scotland finally break its curse and escape the World Cup group stage?

Yes—but Scotland’s margin for error is now small. The 1-0 loss to Morocco leaves Scotland on three points from two matches after beating Haiti 1-0. They have not yet escaped the group, but they are still very much alive because the 2026 World Cup’s expanded format sends the top two teams in each group plus the eight best third-place teams into the Round of 32. That format is Scotland’s best chance to end a long pattern: this is their ninth World Cup, their first since 1998, and they have never previously gone beyond the group stage. Pre-tournament models gave them a realistic shot. Opta put their chances of reaching the Round of 32 at about 65.6%, while another projection had them finishing third on four points—often enough to qualify among the best third-place teams. The problem is the remaining fixture. Scotland now face Brazil in Miami, and historically they have never beaten Brazil at a World Cup. Their narrow win over Haiti also hurt their goal-difference cushion, which could matter if they finish third and are compared with teams from other groups. So the curse is not broken yet, but it is still breakable. A draw with Brazil would give Scotland a strong chance of advancing on four points. Even a narrow defeat could leave them with an outside chance, depending on results elsewhere, but that route is far less secure. Scotland remain in contention, though no longer in control of their own comfort.

3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Jun 20

Scotland supporters left Boston for Miami after Friday's 1-0 defeat to Morocco, saying they were "gutted" to leave a city they said had embraced them.
Wednesday's match against Brazil now drives the move south, with fans still hoping Scotland can reach the Round of 32 and return to Boston.
Boston became a temporary base for the Tartan Army's kilts, bagpipes and heavy bar tabs, with supporters praising local residents and police for letting them celebrate freely.
Morocco fans departed on a high after their first win of the 2026 World Cup, following an earlier draw with Brazil, and will next face Haiti in Atlanta on Wednesday.