Brazil legend Gilberto Silva insists Scotland can pull off a historic shock and finally beat the five-time world champions in Miami.
The former Arsenal Invincible, part of Brazil’s 2002 World Cup-winning squad, believes Steve Clarke’s side have a real chance against a team he admits is not at the level of past greats.
Scotland have never beaten Brazil in 10 previous meetings, with draws in 1966 and 1974 their best results, but Silva told the Scottish Sun that record could change. He said: “I think it is going to be a tough game for Brazil.
“Brazil want to win to come first in the group. It was difficult for Brazil in the first game. We suffered a bit in the middle of the park due to the combination play of Morocco.”
Silva admitted Brazil looked more solid in their win over Haiti, but warned Scotland will pose a very different threat. He added: “For the second game against Haiti, I noticed we were more stable. But I must say also it was a different type of opponent.
“Scotland, even though they haven’t beaten Brazil before, there’s going to be an opportunity for them.”
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The 49-year-old, now part of FIFA’s Technical Study Group, says Clarke’s side have already shown they can trouble bigger nations. He said: “The underdogs, if we want to call Scotland that, have already been working well in this competition.
“Because of the past results we may call Scotland an underdog, but everything is going to be open.”
Silva also warned Brazil must not underestimate Scotland’s Premier League quality. He said: “Brazil have to be very cautious. If they open up so much they can get caught out by this Scotland team.
“Scotland have good players, players who are playing in the Premier League, and we have to respect them.”
And he believes the pressure is firmly on Brazil heading into the crucial Group C clash. Silva said: “Scotland have nothing to lose, they have to go forward. Brazil have a lot to lose, and they have to play to win the game.
“It won’t be easy for Brazil.”
