Clarke: Scotland want to 'do something special' at World Cup

Scotland are back at the World Cup for the first time in 28 years, facing Haiti in their Group C opener on Sunday at 2am UK time, followed by matches against Brazil and Morocco. Head coach Steve Clarke, the first Scotland boss to lead the nation to three major tournaments, insists they are not there just to make up the numbers.

"It's great to be here, but we also want to do something special," Clarke said, confirming that Scott McTominay has recovered from an upset stomach, though Scott McKenna will miss the opening game. "Obviously, we know the last two tournaments haven't gone the way we wanted. We have another chance, and that's credit to the players who keep qualifying for these tournaments."

Clarke admitted he didn't enjoy the previous two tournaments, but hopes lessons have been learned. Reflecting on the 5-1 loss to Germany at Euro 2024, he joked, "Don't get humped." The 2-0 defeat to the Czech Republic at Euro 2020 was different—"just a football game that didn't go our way."

The Scotland boss also warned about Haiti, who are making their first World Cup appearance since 1974. "They're a proud nation, 100% committed, same as us. They have qualities that can cause us problems. We have to deal with those and bring our best game when we have the ball. If we can do that, hopefully that's enough to win."