Five things to look out for as Scotland bid to continue dream World Cup start against Morocco | OneFootball

Scotland’s first World Cup in 28 years continues as they take on Morocco in their second match of Group C on Friday, after getting off to a winning start against Haiti last weekend.

Steve Clarke’s side won 1-0 against the minnows but will face opponents a step up in class as they return to Foxborough.

Here are five things to look out for on their second matchday.

Friday could be one of the biggest nights in Scottish football history as a draw or a victory will all but assure Scotland of qualification for the knockout phase of a major tournament for the first time ever.

Even a defeat will not be fatal as the winning start against Haiti means Steve Clarke’s side are already well placed to potentially go through as one of the best third-placed teams.

Formidable foes

Having laboured against one of the lower-ranked teams in the tournament last weekend, Scotland know they must raise their game significantly for a side that reached the semi-final of the last World Cup and has continued an upward trajectory since then.

Morocco are ranked seventh in the world, champions of Africa, and have not lost a game of note since January 2024. Packed with top-level talent, they signalled their intent with a strong performance in their 1-1 opener against Brazil.

open image in gallery

John McGinn scored the only goal against Haiti (Reuters)

Chance to banish ghosts of 1998

Prior to the win over Haiti, Scotland’s last match at the World Cup finals was a dire 3-0 defeat by Morocco as they were consigned to another early exit at France 98.

The Moroccans are an even stronger team now than they were back then, but the Scots will also feel they can make a better fist of this Friday’s showdown than their predecessors did on that grim night in Saint-Etienne when Craig Burley was sent off.

Scotland started with two strikers in a 4-4-2 formation last weekend but a more compact approach is expected this time, given the calibre of opposition.

open image in gallery

Scotland’s return to the World Cup for the first time since 1998 got off to a strong start (Getty)

Three at the back is an option, as is simply adding a midfielder like Ryan Christie or Kenny McLean to the mix in place of one of the strikers. If Clarke opts to go with one striker, there is every chance Lyndon Dykes will come into consideration for a start.

Foxborough factor

Heading back to the same venue where they enjoyed such a joyous return to the World Cup against Haiti last Saturday, the Tartan Army will be hoping the magnificent Boston Stadium continues to be their field of dreams.

The post-match celebrations will be even more euphoric this time if they can eke out a point or better.