A deflated Scotland manager Steve Clarke and captain Andy Robertson believe they are “going home” as the Tartan Army were pushed towards a World Cup group stage exit after succumbing to the class of Brazil in a 3-0 defeat to complete Group C in Miami.
A Vinicius Jr double and Matheus Cunha’s third have left the Tartan Army with three points and a -3 goal difference, to significantly dent hopes of advancing as one of eight third-place teams. Clarke’s side could still progress with three points in the new 48-team format but now they must wait to discover their fate.
“Time will tell,” Robertson said. “As a collective we didn’t want to put ourselves in a position of having to watch every game and hope for favours. If you ask me now, I don’t think it’s enough, I don’t think we’ve done enough.”
That position was echoed by a frustrated Clarke, as he returned to conduct another post-match interview after cutting the first one short following just 23 seconds. “I think we’re going home,” he said. “The best team won.”
Follow all the latest reaction from Miami below after Scotland’s 3-0 defeat Brazil:
Scotland v Brazil LIVE: Latest World Cup updates
- Scotland lose to Brazil to leave qualification hopes hanging by a thread
- Miguel Delaney: Scotland have stagnated and must now answer an uncomfortable question
- The nine World Cup results Scotland need to qualify for knockout stages
- Terse Steve Clarke abandons post-match interview after just 23 seconds
- Andy Robertson: 'We've only got ourselves to blame'
The nine World Cup results Scotland need to qualify for knockout stages
15:30 , Jamie Braidwood
Steve Clarke’s men finished third in Group C with three points and -3 goal difference and face an agonising wait to determine if they’ll make it into the last-32
The nine World Cup results Scotland need to qualify for knockout stages
WATCH: Steve Clarke admits Scotland are 'probably going home'
15:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle
A flawed format
14:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Regardless, one would probably have to say that the format is flawed slightly if teams are progressing after one win. The trouble with a tournament of 48 nations involved is that it doesn’t divide nicely in two – one assumes another expansion will occur at some point as Fifa looks to grow and grow its premier property.
Mind you, as Miguel Delaney detailed ahead of the first fixture, there is plenty wrong with this World Cup.
Everything wrong with the 2026 World Cup
Context needed for Scotland's peformances?
14:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle
While even they would not claim to have played their best, Scotland may rue the tough draw they were given at this World Cup if they do make an early exit. Morocco were semi-finalists four years ago and Brazil remain a side of high-class, while Haiti perhaps showed yesterday that they are not a side to be simply brushed off. Clearly, that won’t ease the disappointment if they do go out – and Steve Clarke will be frustrated with the manner of the goals conceded in the last two games.
How England can qualify for the World Cup knockout stages tonight – and who they could play
14:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle
England probably won’t be watching the action over the next couple of days quite as closely as they prepare for Panama, but Thomas Tuchel’s side could be assured of a knockout place as soon as tonight:
How England can qualify for the World Cup knockout stages tonight
Scotland have stagnated and World Cup waiting game leaves an uncomfortable question
13:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Do Scotland need a change? Miguel Delaney makes a persuasive case after watching events unfold in Miami:
Scotland have stagnated and World Cup setback leaves an uncomfortable question
Steve Clarke identifies Scotland's key problem after Brazil defeat
13:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Steve Clarke was pretty frank about the limitations of his Scotland squad after defeat last night, admitting that they fell short both in terms of technical ability and athleticism.
“The short answer to that is yes. I think when you see the physicality, the power and the technique of both Morocco and Brazil, you can see that we have to try to do something of our own. We have to try and be better at producing young players that can grace the world stage.
““We definitely didn’t play as well as we can play. But when you put yourself on the back foot, like we did against Morocco, you’re then relying in a bit of grit and determination to get back into the game against a really top opponent. And we didn’t manage to do that.”
Could Steve Clarke's future be in doubt?
13:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Steve Clarke signed a new contract through the 2030 Fifa World Cup just last month, but could his future be in doubt if Scotland do miss out? For a manager who has achieved a lot, Clarke doesn’t appear beloved by the Tartan Army – and the Scots probably didn’t quite play the football they wanted to at this tournament.
It would feel hasty to call for him to go, particularly with a Euros in the United Kingdom to come in two years time, but you never know.
Lawrence Shankland says Scotland won't lose hope
12:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Scotland striker Lawrence Shankland has insisted that the squad will not lose hope – though is realistic about what a blow last night was.
"It's a difficult night,” Shankland admitted to the BBC.
"You know the quality of the opposition going into the game and you want to try and make it difficult for them. We gave away the goal, it was a mistake, it happens in football.
"We dealt with the half OK, we had a bit of possession at times but we were never a real threat. Every time we gave up possession cheaply they were punishing us and creating chances.
"It's hugely frustrating for everybody. You kind of know how the game is going to go before it starts.
"We just live in hope. We are in this position because we put ourselves in it. We had the chance to take care of business and we didn't manage to do it. We're all gutted about that but we live in hope."
Who has qualified for the knockout stages and which teams have been eliminated from the World Cup?
12:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Scotland can only sit and wait now as the knockout stages take shape – here’s who has qualified and the places still to be decided in the round of 32.
Who has qualified for World Cup’s last-32 and who has been eliminated?
World Cup 2026 power rankings: Argentina and France lead charge as England stall in round two
11:30 , Will Castle
The 2026 World Cup is fully into the swing of things with all teams now having played their opening two matches of the campaign in North America.
After a build-up that centred on controversy, greed and conflict, fans have been captivated by some enthralling performances and disappointed by others, with the likes of France and holders Argentina stamping their marks as rightful favourites, while England, Portugal and Brazil have all made slight missteps.
So much can change as the group stage progresses, but here’s how every team stacks up in The Independent’s World Cup 2026 power rankings, delving deeper into the top 10:
World Cup 2026 power rankings: Argentina and France lead charge after round two
This baffling Fifa decision could ruin the World Cup’s famous group stage drama
11:05 , Chris Wilson
Over the next few days, the concept of head-to-head is going to be easy to grasp, but its use will still be difficult to actually get your head around.
Fifa have needlessly, and very suddenly, taken away some of the excitement of their own expanded World Cup.
Consider Thursday alone, which might have been one of the most wondrous days of the tournament.
There could have been six matches with almost everything on the line, all of them invigorated by the intensity of emotion that comes with just trying to get out of a group.
This baffling Fifa decision could ruin the World Cup’s famous group stage drama
Third-place rankings: How they stand in race to reach World Cup knockout stages
10:45 , Jamie Braidwood
The group stage of World Cup 2026 is nearing a conclusion and the battle is on for a place in knockout stages, with eight third-placed sides heading through to the last 32 – and Scotland face a nervous wait.
For the first time in the World Cup’s history, 48 nations are competing in the tournament. They were divided into 12 groups of four, with co-hosts USA, Mexico and Canada all given top-seed status in the draw.
The 12 group winners and 12 runners-up will automatically go through to the round of 32, and they will be joined by the eight best third-placed finishers. They will be ranked by points; then goal difference; goals scored; team conduct score; Fifa ranking.
It is a complicated format to predict, but the mathematical models suggest three points and a goal difference of minus two should be enough to reach the knockout stages. Scotland are right on the brink after finishing Group C with three points and a goal difference of minus three, and can only wait to discover their fate.
The inspiration behind South Africa’s incredible World Cup comeback as Bafana Bafana advance
10:25 , Jamie Braidwood
History for South Africa was another blow to Scotland’s hopes of reaching the World Cup knockout stages, as Bafana Bafana locked up a place in the knockout stages for first time.
From the humiliation at the hands of hosts Mexico, including two red cards, to a dramatic late win on Wednesday thanks to Thapelo Maseko, to down South Korea 1-0 and leapfrog them into second.
South Korea can still qualify as one of the best third-placed teams, and are ahead of Scotland in the ranking of third-place teams.
The inspiration behind South Africa’s incredible World Cup comeback
Scotland sweating on fitness of Andy Robertson ahead of uncertain World Cup future
10:05 , Jamie Braidwood
Scotland are sweating over the fitness of captain Andy Robertson as they await the conclusion of the group stage to determine if they have done enough to qualify for the knockout rounds of the World Cup.
A 3-0 defeat to Brazil in their final group game in Miami has hurt Scotland’s chances of progression but their tally of three points could yet be enough to send them into the last-32 as one of the eight best third-placed teams.
Should they get there, they may need to play their first ever knockout match at a World Cup without their skipper as Robertson picked up an injury during the Brazil clash.
Scotland sweating on fitness of Andy Robertson ahead of uncertain World Cup future
Matheus Cunha's third leaves Scotland's World Cup hopes in doubt
09:45 , Jamie Braidwood
Skipper Andy Robertson was replaced by Kieran Tierney for the start of the second half and within minutes Brazil goalkeeper Alisson saw his first real action when he saved Scott McTominay’s close-range header from a John McGinn cross.
Moments later, Gunn raced from his goal to deny Vinicius Junior his hat-trick by sticking out his foot, then denied the Brazilian star by clutching another effort from long range.
But when Newcastle midfielder Guimaraes burst through the Scottish defence and unselfishly slipped the ball to Cunha for an easy goal, Scots’ supporters slumped back in their seats again.
Scotland at last fought back and Alisson made saves from a Lewis Ferguson free-kick and a McTominay header.
It's three for Brazil! ⚽🇧🇷
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) June 24, 2026
Matheus Cunha finishes a flowing move for the five-time World Cup winners 🙌 pic.twitter.com/uMt630OCi3
More poor defending as Vinicius Jr doubles Brazil's lead against Scotland
09:25 , Jamie Braidwood
Scotland survived a few scares, not least when Vinicius Junior robbed Jack Hendry and slid the ball past Andy Gunn.
At the behest of the VAR, referee Cesar Arturo Ramos was asked to reconsider and the Mexican official gave a foul against the Brazilian for impeding Henry as he tried to play the ball.
But in added time in the first half, after Scotland failed to clear their lines, Bruno Guimaraes’ cross took out Gunn and Vinicius Junior headed in at the back post.
There was time for the Scotland number one to pull off a crucial save from Rayan, who found himself clean through on goal with the Scots defence missing in action.
"The man with the dancing feet uses his head!" 🙌
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) June 24, 2026
Vinicius Jr scores his second goal for Brazil nodding home at the back post ⚽🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/H0KY3cpipC
Scotland make another nightmare start at World Cup as Vinicius Jr steals in
09:05 , Jamie Braidwood
Optimism was high among the Tartan Army, who were vastly outnumbered in the stands by yellow shirts, but after a decent start they were again stunned by an early goal. Scott McKenna, playing for the first time in the tournament after recovering from a calf injury, took a pass from Angus Gunn but was tackled by Rayan and when the ball broke to Vinicius Junior, he simply rounded the Scotland goalkeeper and tapped into the empty net.
After losing a goal in 70 seconds against Morocco, it was another nightmare start for the Scots.
"It's an absolute nightmare at the back!" 😲
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) June 24, 2026
A gift for Vinicius Jr who gives Brazil the lead against Scotland 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/7X8ksd1N1D
Tearful Neymar makes emotional Brazil return as Selecao advance at World Cup
08:45 , Chris Wilson
Brazil legend Neymar made a tearful return to the field for his national side as the Selecao beat Scotland 3-0 in their final group game at the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar, who last played for Brazil in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023, was originally something of a surprise inclusion in the Brazil squad for the tournament, and missed the opening two games due to a calf injury.
However, the 34-year-old recovered in time to make the bench for the final game of Group C, and with Brazil 3-0 up and cruising he was brought on for Matheus Cunha in the 76th minute.
Tearful Neymar makes emotional Brazil return as Selecao advance at World Cup
John McGinn rues 'poor goals' as Scotland put on the brink of World Cup exit
08:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle
John McGinn has rued Scotland’s soft concession of “poor goals” against Brazil, with the Aston Villa midfielder fearing it may be the end of their World Cup campaign.
"We lost poor goals at poor times against a team that can punish you with quality," McGinn told BBC Sport. "We had a few chances but we've got to wait now.
"The lads are gutted, we fell short on quality but we gave it absolutely everything. The lads are empty now. It's unlikely [that we qualify] but we'll wait and see.
"It's a bit raw at the minute but we appreciate the support of the fans, we know it's difficult to be there. Hopefully the journey is not over and if we have to go again, we will go again."
Steve Clarke: 'For sure, I think we're going home'
08:10 , Michael Jones
Steve Clarke later spoke again with the BBC and explained that mistakes cost his team tonight and revealed his thoughts on Scotland’s future in the competition.
“You see their quality in the final third of the pitch, let's be honest, the best team won,” he said.
“Unbelievable, the shift the players put in, in that humidity, outstanding. We have to be better, if we want to compete at this level.
“We started four or five minutes, moving the ball nicely, settled, then we made a mistake, you can't do that at this level.
“Only Scotland can get a winnable first game, then No. 5 and No. 6 in the world next two games, that's the level we're at.
“For sure, I think we’re going home,” he concluded.
Steve Clarke abandons post-match interview after just 23 seconds
07:54 , Michael Jones
Scotland manager Steve Clarke abandoned his post-match interview with BBC presenter Eilidh Barbour after just 23 seconds following a 3-0 loss to Brazil which leaves his team’s World Cup campaign in the balance.
Clarke, who has masterminded Scotland’s path to the World Cup and had high hopes of making history with his squad, was visibly emotional when speaking to Barbour following the final whistle.
“We made it difficult for ourselves, that’s it,” Clarke replied.
Two more questions followed with Barbour asking if it was frustrating that Brazil didn’t need to work hard to score and Clarke agreed saying: “We gave them the goals, we gave them the game they wanted. Disappointing.”
Andy Robertson: 'We've only got ourselves to blame'
07:39 , Jamie Braidwood
Scotland conceded their opening goal in atrocious fashion, with Scott McKenna gifting the ball to Vinicius Jr after just eight minutes.
“We started the game well, we pushed up the pitch, they maybe put us in a false sense of security,” captain Andy Robertson said.
“We had time on the ball and then got punished. We're just off the pitch but the initial reaction is just one of frustration.
"At times we were comfortable on the ball, at times we got ourselves in dangerous areas but at this stage, against these teams, we can't afford to make the mistakes we made.
"We played some nice stuff when you then go and get beat 3-0. A frustrating night but I suppose we've only got ourselves to blame."
The nine World Cup results Scotland need to qualify for knockout stages
07:25 , Michael Jones
Scotland‘s World Cup hopes are on the brink after finishing third in Group C following a 3-0 defeat to Brazil - and their fate is out of their hands.
Steve Clarke’s side defeated Haiti in their opening match before a slim 1-0 loss to Morocco. A dispiriting defeat to Brazil left them with just three points and a goal difference of -3, as well as an agonising wait to determine if they’ll make it into the knockout rounds.
From 12 groups only the best eight third placed finishers will progress meaning Scotland need four teams to finish third with fewer than three points or a worse goal difference than them (-3) to qualify.
The Scots may not know their fate until the final group stage matches have been played meaning a wait until Sunday and the conclusion of Group J’s fixtures. South Africa’s victory over South Korea in Group A is already a significant blow.
The nine World Cup results Scotland need to qualify for knockout stages
Scotland's John McGinn: It's 'unlikely' Scotland are going through
07:10 , Jamie Braidwood
John McGinn, speaking to BBC One: "Gutted obviously. We lose poor goals at poor times against a team that can punish you with quality. We had a few chances but we've got to wait now. The lads are gutted, we fell short on quality tonight but we gave it absolutely everything. The lads are empty now.
"It's unlikely [to qualify] but we'll wait and see. In moments they [Brazil] hurt you. They allowed us to have the ball and at this level if you make mistakes you get punished. We probably were fortunate to have the [second] goal disallowed.
"It's a bit raw at the minute but we appreciate the support of the fans, we know it's difficult to be there. Hopefully the journey is not over and if we have to go again, we will go again."
Scotland boss Steve Clarke: 'I think we're going home'
06:50 , Jamie Braidwood
Steve Clarke after the 3-0 defeat to Brazil: “I think we’re going home. You see their quality in the final third of the pitch, we didn’t have that. We created chances but it wasn’t enough. Let’s be honest, the best team won.
“The first thing they have got to do is go away and compute their performance and why we lost the game in the manner we did, We can worry about the rest later. We gave them the goals. When you look at Brazil attacking play and ours, really no comparison.
“We definitely didn’t play as we can play.”
Who has qualified for the knockout stages and which teams have been eliminated from the World Cup?
06:30 , Chris Wilson
The group stage of World Cup 2026 is nearing a conclusion and the battle is on for a place in knockout stages.
For the first time in the World Cup’s history, 48 nations are competing in the tournament. They were divided into 12 groups of four, with co-hosts USA, Mexico and Canada all given top-seed status in the draw.
The 12 group winners and 12 runners-up will automatically go through to the round of 32, and they will be joined by the eight best third-placed finishers, based on points and goal difference at the end of the group stage.
Seven teams have booked their place in the knockout rounds after winning both of their opening matches. Five teams have so far been eliminated from the competition after losing both of their fixtures.
In total, 16 nations will go home after the group stage.
Who has qualified for World Cup’s last-32 and who has been eliminated?
World Cup 2026 knockout fixtures, results and group tables
06:00 , Chris Wilson
The 2026 World Cup is hurtling towards the knockout stages after 48 nations were split into 12 groups for the first time in the tournament’s long history.
Co-hosts Mexico, USA and Canada are the top seeds in Groups A, B and D respectively, while Scotland are in Group C with Brazil, Morocco and Haiti, and England are all the way down in Group L with Croatia, Ghana and Panama.
The top two sides in each group will qualify for the World Cup’s first ever round of 32, as will the eighth best third-place teams. Just three points could be enough for some teams to reach the knockout stages.
There will be 104 matches, up by 40 since the Qatar World Cup in 2022, while Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo likely to play on this stage for the last time in their glittering careers.
Here are all the fixtures, results and latest group standings:
World Cup 2026 knockout fixtures, results and group tables
Scotland have stagnated and World Cup waiting game leaves an uncomfortable question
05:31 , Jack Rathborn
Scotland are now waiting, in a strange form of football purgatory at this World Cup, but a hobbled Andy Robertson wasn’t hanging about to make judgment.
“I don’t think it’s enough,” the captain asserted. “I don’t think we’ve done enough. Time well tell. Maybe we’re proved wrong. Maybe another shot at it. The next couple of days will be horrible, and long. This is the situation we’ve put ourselves in. We have to deal with it.”
As Robertson acknowledged, Scotland’s three points and minus-three goal difference might yet be enough to get to the last 32, but it didn’t feel like his frustration even came from that.
Scotland have stagnated and World Cup setback leaves an uncomfortable question
Two goals and an assist by sheer aura: Cristiano Ronaldo has entered the World Cup chat
05:00 , Lawrence Ostlere in Houston
Cristiano Ronaldo has entered the chat. In the week Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland raced off in pursuit of the World Cup’s Golden Boot, the player to have scored more goals than anyone alive finally turned up in North America. This game felt less about football and more about one man’s quest to justify his existence. Ronaldo scored two goals and his sheer aura created another as – sidenote – Portugal beat Uzbekistan 5-0 to assert themselves in Group K.
The power of Ronaldo’s celebrity showed itself before the game had even begun. As the crowd counted down the seconds to kick-off inside this hulking metallic stadium in Houston, Uzbekistan's Aziz Ganiev took his chance, leaning over the halfway line to lay hands on the great man, who responded with a hug.
Two goals and an assist by sheer aura: Cristiano Ronaldo has entered the chat
Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo? The debate was always absurd
04:00 , Chris Wilson
As everyone tried to find words, with Lionel Scaloni again insisting Lionel Messi just defies explanation, the roar said enough.
And there were two.
One was for breaking the World Cup scoring record with a brilliant first-time finish for his 17th goal.
The next was for going clear, through a typically divine first touch and relentless run, to bring this 2-0 win over Austria to a glorious crescendo.
Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo? The debate was always absurd
Tearful Neymar makes emotional Brazil return as Selecao advance at World Cup
03:12 , Chris Wilson
Brazil legend Neymar made a tearful return to the field for his national side as the Selecao beat Scotland 3-0 in their final group game at the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar, who last played for Brazil in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023, was originally something of a surprise inclusion in the Brazil squad for the tournament, and missed the opening two games due to a calf injury.
However, the 34-year-old recovered in time to make the bench for the final game of Group C, and with Brazil 3-0 up and cruising he was brought on for Matheus Cunha in the 76th minute.
Tearful Neymar makes emotional Brazil return as Selecao advance at World Cup
Is there a problem with the 2026 World Cup ball? Why goalkeepers are struggling with the Trionda
03:00 , Will Castle
There are a few parallels that can be drawn between the World Cups of 2026 and 2010. Both kicked off with the same opener: South Africa vs Mexico. Both harnessed an irritating droning noise we couldn’t get rid of: South Africa had the vuvuzela, North America has Alexi Lalas. But there’s an emerging shared trait that threatens to disrupt this tournament, just like it did 16 years ago. Once again, the ball is becoming the story.
No football exists in greater infamy than the Jabulani. Its ultra-smooth design with just eight thermally-bonded panels created the most unpredictable World Cup ball ever seen. Loathed by the many, including all goalkeepers, it was also mastered by the few.
Is there a problem with the World Cup ball? Why goalkeepers are struggling
'We've not done enough ourselves'
02:23 , Chris Wilson
“It was disappointing - the result, the manner of the result. The fact we've given the goals away makes it even more disappointing,” said Kenny McLean on BBC Scotland.
“We worked on structure and the way we wanted to be off the ball, to try and control where they had the ball. We did it for large spells, but when you give the opposition opportunities like that, it's going to be tough.
"It happens, there's no blame attached to any individual. We can all do more. Unfortunately, the first falls to their player, and I think there's a little bit of anxiety and nerves throughout the team after that.
“We dug deep, we fought, we gave everything, we came up against a really good team and got punished again.
“It's going to be really tough [waiting to see if Scotland advance]. Everything is out of our control, unfortunately.
“We've not done enough ourselves, now we need to rely on others, which is not a nice feeling, but it's the position we've put ourselves in, and we need to keep our fingers crossed,” he added.
Shankland: 'We live in hope'
02:20 , Chris Wilson
“It's a difficult night. You know the quality of the opposition going into the game and you want to try and make it difficult for them. We gave away the goal, it was a mistake, it happens in football,” said Lawrence Shankland on BBC.
“We dealt with the half OK, we had a bit of possession at times but we were never a real threat. Every time we gave up possession cheaply they were punishing us and creating chances.
“it's hugely frustrating for everybody. You kind of know how the game is going to go before it starts.
“We just live in hope. We are in this position because we put ourselves in it. We had the chance to take care of business and we didn't manage to do it. We're all gutted about that but we live in hope,” he added.
In pics: Neymar makes emotional Brazil return
02:10 , Chris Wilson
It was an emotional night for Neymar as well as the Brazil legend featured for the Selecao for the first time since October 2023!
WATCH: Brazil put three past Scotland to leaves World Cup dreams hanging by a thread
02:01 , Chris Wilson
Here are the highlights for the three Brazil goals then, starting with a howler from McKenna...
"It's an absolute nightmare at the back!" 😲
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) June 24, 2026
A gift for Vinicius Jr who gives Brazil the lead against Scotland 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/7X8ksd1N1D
...and then another poor moment from the Scotland defence...
"The man with the dancing feet uses his head!" 🙌
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) June 24, 2026
Vinicius Jr scores his second goal for Brazil nodding home at the back post ⚽🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/H0KY3cpipC
...before a real moment of class from Guimaraes to set up Cunha for the third.
It's three for Brazil! ⚽🇧🇷
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) June 24, 2026
Matheus Cunha finishes a flowing move for the five-time World Cup winners 🙌 pic.twitter.com/uMt630OCi3
Scotland sweating on fitness of Andy Robertson ahead of uncertain World Cup future
01:56 , Chris Wilson
Scotland are sweating over the fitness of captain Andy Robertson as they await the conclusion of the group stage to determine if they have done enough to qualify for the knockout rounds of the World Cup 2026.
A 3-0 defeat to Brazil in their final group game in Miami has hurt Scotland’s chances of progression but their tally of three points could yet be enough to send them into the last-32 as one of the eight best third-placed teams.
Should they get there, they may need to play their first ever knockout match at a World Cup without their skipper as Robertson picked up an injury during the Brazil clash.
Scotland sweating on fitness of Andy Robertson ahead of uncertain World Cup future
01:51 , Chris Wilson
“You see their quality in the final third of the pitch. Let's be honest. The best team won,” says Steve Clarke as he returns for another interview.
“Unbelievable, the shift the players put in, in that humidity, outstanding.
“We have to be better, if we want to compete at this level. We started four or five minutes, moving the ball nicely, settled, then we made a mistake, you can't do that at this level.
“For me, for sure, I think we're going home.
“Only Scotland can get a winnable first game, then No 5 and No 6 in the world next two games, that's the level we're at,” he added as he finished.
Steve Clarke abandons post-match interview after just 23 seconds
01:46 , Chris Wilson
Scotland manager Steve Clarke abandoned his post-match interview with BBC presenter Eilidh Barbour after just 23 seconds following a 3-0 loss to Brazil which leaves his team’s World Cup campaign in the balance.
Vinicius Junior scored twice and Matheus Cunha once as the Scots were swept aside in Miami primarily due to their own defensive mistakes.
That leaves them in third place in Group C with a goal difference of -3 and means they must wait for other results to see if they have made it into the knockout rounds for the first time in their history.
Steve Clarke abandons post-match interview after just 23 seconds
More from Robertson
01:41 , Chris Wilson
“Personally, time will tell, a day or two to see what has actually happened, and I'll do that,” says Robertson on his ankle issue.
“As a collective, we didn't want to put ourselves in a position where we have to watch every game and ask for favours. We've put ourselves in a really difficult situation.
“I don't think it's enough, I don't think we've done enough. Time will tell. Maybe we're proved wrong. Maybe another shot at it.
“The next couple of days will be horrible, and long. This is the situation we've put ourselves in. We have to deal with it,” he added as he finished.
Robertson: 'A frustrating night'
01:38 , Chris Wilson
“Frustration, making mistakes, we started the game well, keeping the ball, pushed up the pitch. They put us in a false sense of security, then punished, we try to fight back but you're up against a quality team,” explained Scotland’s Andy Robertson at full-time.
“Initial reaction is one of frustration, at times we let us down tonight. We couldn't afford to do that.
“At times we were comfortable on the ball, dangerous areas, a couple of chances. At this stage, against these teams, we can't afford to make the mistakes we're making.
“We've been punished for pretty much every mistake we've made. We played some nice stuff at times. [It’s] a frustrating night,” he added.
Why Vinicius Jr’s goal for Brazil against Scotland was controversially disallowed by VAR
01:34 , Chris Wilson
Scotland enjoyed a huge reprieve during the first half of their decisive World Cup 2026 group match against Brazil when Vinicius Junior had what would have been his second goal of the match ruled out following a VAR review.
Scotland – who headed into the Group C finale needing a point to all-but seal passage to the World Cup knockouts for the first time in their history, while a narrow defeat would at least keep their hopes alive – already trailed 1-0 in Miami when Vini Jr capitalised on a Scott McKenna howler to net after just seven minutes.
Why Vinicius Jr’s controversial goal for Brazil against Scotland was disallowed
'We gave them two goals'
01:31 , Chris Wilson
“We made it difficult for ourselves, that's it,” says a disappointed Steve Clarke on BBC.
“We gave them the goals, we gave them the game they wanted. Disappointing."
On what's to come, he adds: "I don't even think about that."
He then walks away in what was an interview of roughly 20 seconds!
'In moment they hurt you'
01:27 , Chris Wilson
Here’s more from McGinn, who was speaking to BBC One:
“In moments they [Brazil] hurt you. They allowed us to have the ball and at this level if you make mistakes you get punished. We probably were fortunate to have the [second] goal disallowed.
“It's a bit raw at the minute but we appreciate the support of the fans, we know it's difficult to be there. Hopefully the journey is not over and if we have to go again, we will go again,” he added.
McGinn: 'The lads are gutted'
01:24 , Chris Wilson
“Gutted obviously. We lose poor goals at poor times against a team that can punish you with quality. We had a few chances but we've got to wait now,” said John McGinn after full-time.
“The lads are gutted, we fell short on quality tonight but we gave it absolutely everything. The lads are empty now.
“It's unlikely [that they qualify] but we'll wait and see,” he added.
'I expected a lot more'
01:21 , Chris Wilson
“I expected a lot more from Scotland, especially on the defensive side, because I thought it was one of the strengths of this team,” says former Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva on BBC One.
In truth, Steve Clarke’s side were their own undoing with that early goal given to Vini Jr.
Third-place rankings: How they stand in race to reach World Cup knockout stages
01:17 , Lawrence Ostlere
The group stage of World Cup 2026 is nearing a conclusion and the battle is on for a place in knockout stages, with eight third-placed sides heading through to the last 32 – and Scotland face a nervous wait.
For the first time in the World Cup’s history, 48 nations are competing in the tournament. They were divided into 12 groups of four, with co-hosts USA, Mexico and Canada all given top-seed status in the draw.
The 12 group winners and 12 runners-up will automatically go through to the round of 32, and they will be joined by the eight best third-placed finishers. They will be ranked by points; then goal difference; goals scored; team conduct score; Fifa ranking.
Third-place rankings: How they stand in race to reach World Cup knockout stages
Group C standings
01:13 , Chris Wilson
Here’s how Group C finished in the end then:
1 - Brazil - 7pts, GD +6
2 - Morocco - 7pts, GD +3
3 - Scotland - 3pts, GD -3
4 - Haiti - 0pts, GD -6
Can Scotland still qualify for the knockout rounds and who will they play?
01:10 , Michael Jones
Scotland remain on the brink of making history after finishing third in Group C following a 3-0 defeat to Brazil but fate is out of their hands.
Vinicius Junior struck first after a mistake from Scott McKenna. The defender was caught in possession by Rayan who prodded the ball across to Vinicius for a simple tap-in after rounding the goalkeeper. Vini Jr then nodded in a second goal on the stroke of half-time and Matheus Cunha scored a third on the hour mark.
Steve Clarke’s side defeated Haiti in their opening match before a slim 1-0 loss to Morocco and defeat to Brazil left them with just three points and an agonising wait to determine if they’ll make it into the knockout rounds.
Can Scotland still qualify for the knockout rounds and who will they play?
FULL-TIME! Scotland 0-3 Brazil
01:07 , Chris Wilson
A few Scotland players are looking bitterly disappointed on the Miami pitch, but they can hold hope of making the last 32.
In the end they paid for some poor mistakes and just didn’t have the quality to make Brazil pay when they had chances.
FULL-TIME! Scotland 0-3 Brazil
01:05 , Chris Wilson
FULL-TIME! Scotland 0-3 Brazil
01:02 , Chris Wilson
The referee blows the final whistle and Brazil have secured top spot in Group C!
Scotland face a nervy wait to see if they will progress as a third-place qualifier.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
01:02 , Chris Wilson
90 +6 mins
CLOSE! Oh, that could have been the one!
The corner is only partially cleared and Ralston does brilliantly to beat a man before fizzing in a cross.
McTominay knocks it towards goal but Alisson pounces on it to deny Scotland a vital goal!
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
01:00 , Chris Wilson
90 +5 mins
The cross comes in and Guimaraes does well to head over when going towards his own goal.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
01:00 , Chris Wilson
90 +5 mins
A lte chance for Scotland to put a ball into the box as Ferguson is dragged down by Martinelli.
It’s about 35 yards out.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:58 , Chris Wilson
90 +3 mins
We’re halfway through the allotted six minutes of added time.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:58 , Chris Wilson
90 +1 mins
Scotland make their final changes as Che Adams and Findlay Curtis come on for McGinn and Shankland.
Brazil counter from a long throw and a Vini Jr pass could put two teammates clean through, but Ralston makes a potentially vital block.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:56 , Chris Wilson
90 mins
A yellow card for Christie as he brings down Neymar.
Neymar delivers the free-kick and it’s cleared back to him – he tries to curl one in but Gunn makes the save.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:54 , Chris Wilson
89 mins
McGinn digs out the cross to Ralston and the defender tries his luck but it bounces harmlessly to Alisson.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:52 , Chris Wilson
87 mins
Scotland are offering very little when they have the ball at the moment, and Brazil are strolling into the last 32 untroubled.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:51 , Chris Wilson
85 mins
Neymar swings in a corner but Shankland is there to clear away.
The Brazilian tries again and Gabriel ends up making a good connection with a volley that is deflected behind.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:49 , Chris Wilson
83 mins
A penalty appeal for Scotland as McTominay does well before Tierney goes down under the challenge in the box, but it’s waved away by the ref.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:47 , Chris Wilson
81 mins
Changes for Scotland as Gannon-Doak and Patterson come off for Ryan Christie and Anthony Ralston.
Brazil bring on Endrick and Alex Sandro for Santos and Rayan.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:46 , Chris Wilson
80 mins
It just isn’t happening for Scotland at the moment. They’re at serious risk of exiting the tournament if it stays like this.
Rayan drives forward and plays in Danilo, who fires a great low cross to the back post that Vini Jr can’t direct at goal.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:44 , Chris Wilson
78 mins
Another good save from Gunn, who gets a strong hand to a low Vini Jr effort at the near post. The ‘keeper might have kept them in the tournament this evening!
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:42 , Chris Wilson
77 mins
Morocco are now leading Haiti but that result won’t change much, as they won’t catch Brazil’s goal difference.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:41 , Chris Wilson
75 mins
Well played from Tierney as he’s isolated on the wing but comes away with a corner. Nothing comes of the set-piece though.
Neymar comes on for Cunha.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:39 , Chris Wilson
73 mins
Cheers around the Miami Stadium as Neymar appears ready to come on.
Scotland are in possession but they’re not threatening the Selecao at the moment.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:38 , Chris Wilson
72 mins
CHANCE! Almost an opening for Scotland as Tierney delivers the cross and Shankland scuffs his effort to McTominay, who can only bundle it narrowly over.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:37 , Chris Wilson
71 mins
Back underway in Miami.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:33 , Chris Wilson
68 mins
Into the final hydration break in Miami. Scotland are staring at an exit unless they can claw something back here.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:31 , Chris Wilson
66 mins
Suba for Brazil now as Fabinho and Gabriel Martinelli come on for Casemiro and Paqueta.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:29 , Chris Wilson
64 mins
CLOSE!
Ferguson whips the effort towards goal but Alisson tips it over.
From the corner, Tierney fires in the follow-up cross and McTominay heads it towards goal, but a sprawling Alisson manages to claw it away!
Scotland 0-3 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:28 , Chris Wilson
63 mins
Scotland simply have to go for it now, and they’re almost rewarded for it instantly as Tierney is scythed down on the edge of the box by Danilo.
It’s a free-kick on the wing right on the edge of the area.
Scotland 0-3 Brazil (Cunha, 60')
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:27 , Chris Wilson
61 mins
GOAL! That should be that, though Scotland are claiming a foul in the build-up.
Guimaraes nudges into Tierney before skipping past a challenge and drawing in Gunn before rolling it into the path of Cunha, who simply has to slide it into a near-empty net.
Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:24 , Chris Wilson
58 mins
Another opening for Brazil but the shot is blocked well before Paqueta curls wide from distance.
Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:21 , Chris Wilson
55 mins
Scotland want a penalty again as Shankland is bundled over in the area. There’s more to that one but it was still soft.
Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:19 , Chris Wilson
54 mins
Scotland want a penalty as McTominay goes down in the box but it was a soft appeal.
Moments later, Vini Jr stings the palms of Gunn with a drive from long range, but it was never troubling the ‘keeper.
Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:17 , Chris Wilson
52 mins
SAVE! Gunn keeps Scotland in it again!
This time, Paqueta slides a perfectly weighted through ball into the path of Vini Jr to send him clear.
The Brazilian tries to slides a finish past Gunn but the ‘keeper was off his line quickly, closing the space well enough to make the stop.
Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:15 , Chris Wilson
50 mins
SAVE! Half a chance for Scotland as the cross is whipped in by Tierney and McTominay rises highest but can only power the header straight at Alisson.
Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:14 , Chris Wilson
49 mins
Unlucky from Gannon-Doak, who’s just crowded out as he latches onto a pass forward.
It’s Scotland’s turn to enjoy some possession now.
Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:12 , Chris Wilson
47 mins
Some early possession for Brazil here to begin the second half.
KICK-OFF! Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:10 , Chris Wilson
Back underway at the Miami Stadium!
Kieran Tierney has come on for Andy Robertson at half-time.
HALF-TIME! Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:09 , Chris Wilson
The players are back out onto the pitch in Miami, so we’ll be getting re-started soon.
Scotland need a minor miracle to claw this back but they won’t be giving up yet with a place in the last 32 on the line.
At present, Scotland are sixth in the list of the best eight-placed teams, though several sides can improve on their records in the coming days.
Even one goal would move them up to fourth in that list.
Why Vinicius Jr’s goal for Brazil against Scotland was disallowed after controversial VAR reprieve
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:07 , Chris Wilson
Scotland enjoyed a huge reprieve during the first half of their decisive World Cup 2026 group match against Brazil when Vinicius Junior had what would have been his second goal of the match ruled out following a VAR review.
Scotland – who headed into the Group C finale needing a point to all-but seal passage to the World Cup knockouts for the first time in their history, while a narrow defeat would at least keep their hopes alive – already trailed 1-0 in Miami when Vini Jr capitalised on a Scott McKenna howler to net after just seven minutes.
Why Vinicius Jr’s controversial goal for Brazil against Scotland was disallowed
HALF-TIME! Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:05 , Chris Wilson
It’s been a shocking start for Scotland, but they’re just about still in this. A draw would almost certainly take them through but even a narrow loss would put them in a decent position, so even reducing the deficit might be enough to take them through.
It’s all to play for in Miami but Steve Clarke’s side will need to improve dramatically in this second half.
'We need to regroup'
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:01 , Chris Wilson
“It's really difficult, they've shown their threat, they're comfortable and will punish you,” says Scotland assistant coach Steven Naismith at half-time.
“We need to regroup. We have to be better defensively, they're happy to leave boys up the pitch, but we have the final third, we haven't tested them enough,” he added.
HALF-TIME! Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:58 , Chris Wilson
HALF-TIME! Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:54 , Chris Wilson
That Rayan miss is the last action of the half as the referee blows the whistle.
Scotland have a mountain to climb in Miami, and it could be a damage limitation exercise for Steve Clarke.
Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:53 , Chris Wilson
45 +6 mins
SAVE! It should be 3-0!
Gunn makea a great save to atone for his earlier mistake. Rayan latches onto the pass and flicks it inside the defender to go clear on goal, but Gunn rushes off his line and manages to make the save!
Scotland 0-2 Brazil
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:52 , Chris Wilson
45 +5 mins
So poor in several ways from Scotland as they conceded that second. What are Robertson and Gunn doing?
Gannon-Doak sees the ball sit up nicely on the edge of the area but it’s blasted at a Brazil defender.
GOAL! Scotland 0-2 Brazil (Vini Jr, 45 +3')
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:51 , Chris Wilson
45 +3 mins
GOAL! That one will count!
Brazil have a second and it’s Vini Jr again!
Scotland fail to clear it after a poor pass from Robertson and Guimaraes picks it up in the area. He looks up and clips a great cross to the back post – Gunn is left flapping at thin air and Vini Jr heads into an empty net for 2-0!
Scotland 0-1 Brazil
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:49 , Chris Wilson
45 +3 mins
Patterson brings down Vini Jr and Brazil win a free-kick, but they’re in no rush to put the ball into the box.
Elsewhere, Morocco have equalised again! Saibari to make it 2-2.
Scotland 0-1 Brazil
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:48 , Chris Wilson
45 +2 mins
Gannon-Doak initially scuffs an effort but has a second go at it before he’s stopped in his tracks in the box.
Scotland 0-1 Brazil
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:47 , Chris Wilson
45 mins
OFF THE LINE! Some good last-ditch defending from Ferguson as he clears off the line.
Vini Jr picks up the one-two pass and races to the byline before cutting it back for Cunha, who slides in but sees his low effort cleared at the last!
Scotland 0-1 Brazil
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:45 , Chris Wilson
44 mins
Remarkably, Haiti have scored another against Morocco just before half-time! That’s 2-1 now.
Scotland 0-1 Brazil
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:45 , Chris Wilson
43 mins
Just a bit of game management from Brazil here as they look to see out the half.
Head-to-head rules provide group stage problem
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:44 , Chris Wilson
Our Chief Football Writer Miguel Delaney is at the Miami Stadium for Scotland v Brazil, and here are his latest thoughts...
We wrote about the new head-to-head rules earlier and this very game double illustrates the whole problem. Haiti are beating a Morocco who themselves need a result, for what could be a historic result. It could also be a historic moment, but they are needlessly locked out of qualification because of the head-to-head rule against Scotland. Imagine the tension of this Scotland-Brazil game if it was the old system.
Scotland 0-1 Brazil
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:43 , Chris Wilson
41 mins
Cunha sees some space open up ahead of him and he tries to bend one into the far corner, but it’s wide of the post.
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
