Scotland’s World Cup destiny is in their own hands but lack of gamechangers shows

Grant Hanley and Scotland find themselves in strange territory over qualification with so many matches still to be played. Photograph: Michael Zemanek/Shutterstock

The permutations Steve Clarke is so desperate to avoid are already dominating discussion among the Tartan Army. As Ismael Saibari smacked Morocco in front inside two minutes against Scotland, goal difference rose on the horizon of anyone wanting Clarke and his players to create history. Those in navy blue were clinging on in Boston.

What happened next can be considered a moral victory for Scotland. Morocco were wasteful for the remainder of the first half. Scotland improved markedly in the second period, even daring to control spells of the game. The 1-0 defeat returns their goal difference to zero rather than leaving them already staring at early elimination while on three points. The problem is, Brazil lie in wait next.