Steve Clarke wants Scotland to “do something special” on their return to the World Cup for the first time in 28 years.
They take on Haiti in their opening match in Group C on Sunday (2am UK time) before facing Brazil and Morocco as they look to progress to the knockout stages for the first time.
Clarke is the first Scotland coach to lead the nation to three tournaments, and he insists they are not there just to make up the numbers.
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Luke Shanley continues the build up to Scotland’s opening match of the 2026 World Cup against Haiti this weekend by chatting to former international Kris Boyd.
“It’s great to be here, but we also want to do something special,” the head coach said as he confirmed Scott McTominay had recovered from an upset stomach, but Scott McKenna would miss the opening game.
“Obviously, we know the last two tournaments haven’t gone the way that we wanted the tournament to go.
Scott McTominay is available after returning to training
“We have another chance, and that’s credit to the players that keep qualifying for these major tournaments.
“Anybody who speaks to me, tells me that they’re grateful that the team has brought me here. I’m the same. I’m grateful that my team has brought me here.”
Lessons learned?
Scotland failed to impress in their opening games at both Euro 2020 and 2024, losing 2-0 to the Czech Republic and 5-1 against Germany respectively
Clarke has admitted he “didn’t enjoy the last two tournaments” but he is hoping they have learned from those disappointments.
“The Germany one’s easy. Don’t get humped,” the 62-year-old added.
“The Czech Republic one’s a little bit different. That was a football game that just didn’t go our way.
“The Germany one was obviously more disappointing because we didn’t get anywhere near the level that we can get.
Will Lawrence Shankland and Che Adams lead the line again?
“We know it’s going to be a difficult game.
“It’s the first time in 28 years that we’ve been there. I think it’s the first time for Haiti since 1974.
“They’re also a proud nation. They’re going to be here 100 per cent committed, the same as we are.
“We know that they have qualities that can cause us problems on the pitch.
“We have to deal with those problems and then we have to try and bring our best game to the pitch when we have the ball.
“If we can do that, then hopefully that’s enough to win the game.”
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