Scotland, making its first appearance in the World Cup in 28 years, has a tough task ahead if it hopes to stick around for a few more weeks.
In a match during which they were outclassed by Morocco at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass., their 1-0 defeat has them third in the Group C table, only one point behind Brazil and Morocco, but the Scots must face Brazil in their final group match.
They are in a precarious spot. If they beat Brazil, which would be one of the great upsets in World Cup history, it would ensure they advance and would even provide an opportunity to win the group. A draw would give them a fourth point in table, making them a strong candidate for one of the eight knockout-stage wild cards being given to third-place teams. But any multi-goal loss to Brazil will likely send them home.
Brazil, which had a draw with Morocco in its first game, got three first half goals Friday to defeat Haiti, 3-0. No deep analysis beyond Brazil ... Haiti.
My take: The Tartan Army fan base has been one of the true joys of this World Cup. I'd hate to see them go, but I don't like their chances against Brazil after having trouble handling Morocco's speed.
THE ASYLUM
Scots in trouble?
Scotland, making its first appearance in the World Cup in 28 years, has a tough task ahead if it hopes to stick around for a few more weeks.
In a match during which they were outclassed by Morocco at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass., their 1-0 defeat has them third in the Group C table, only one point behind Brazil and Morocco, but the Scots must face Brazil in their final group match.
They are in a precarious spot. If they beat Brazil, which would be one of the great upsets in World Cup history, it would ensure they advance and would even provide an opportunity to win the group. A draw would give them a fourth point in table, making them a strong candidate for one of the eight knockout-stage wild cards being given to third-place teams. But any multi-goal loss to Brazil will likely send them home.
Brazil, which had a draw with Morocco in its first game, got three first half goals Friday to defeat Haiti, 3-0. No deep analysis beyond Brazil ... Haiti.
My take: The Tartan Army fan base has been one of the true joys of this World Cup. I'd hate to see them go, but I don't like their chances against Brazil after having trouble handling Morocco's speed.
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