2026 World Cup: Steve Clarke's contrasting record with Scotland, threatened with early elimination
By OnzeActu · · 3 min read
After ending a 28-year absence from the World Cup, Steve Clarke's Scotland faces elimination in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup. The Scottish coach, although extended before the tournament, sees his record called into question while the team was unable to raise its level against opponents from the top 10 in the world.
Steve Clarke will have ended Scotland's long drought in the World Cup, but the selection is now on the verge of premature elimination during this 2026 World Cup. Placed in a very tough group with Brazil and Morocco, respectively fifth and sixth in the FIFA rankings, the Scots did not achieve the hoped-for feat to advance to the next round, despite a victory against Haiti.
Expected in third place in this group C, Clarke's men do not obtain one of the best records among the thirds, synonymous with qualification. At a time when nations like Cape Verde, Ghana and Bosnia-Herzegovina are continuing their journey, the disappointment is great for the Tartan Army. The DRC is even expected to complete the list of qualified outsiders.
The Scottish collective performance during the three matches disappointed, as former international Willie Miller pointed out: “In the three matches, we fell short of expectations. A world-class striker is missing and certain choices leave one wondering. » Miller nevertheless salutes the unity established by Clarke and recalls that his main merit is to have brought the team back to the World Cup.
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Despite the support shown by the Federation, thanks to finances reinvigorated by repeated qualifications in the final phase, Clarke suffered criticism. James McFadden, former striker, especially notes the defensive level considered insufficient, particularly during the big defeats against Morocco and Brazil, punctuated by fatal errors. Contested refereeing decisions against Morocco (two possible penalties, a red card not whistled) add to the frustration.
Pat Nevin, another ex-international, points out the lack of structural solidity and nevertheless defends Clarke on the absence of tactical reluctance: “Scotland simply lacks the level to play too openly against such nations. »
With this elimination in sight, the position of Steve Clarke is observed, but the technician – the most capped in history on the Scottish bench – benefits from an extended contract and lasting support. Defender Stephen O'Donnell says the progress is to be welcomed: “You can't expect more than three points in a group of this caliber. The simple fact of having won a victory – the first since 1990 – is indicative of progress. »
For Scotland, this 2026 World Cup will have made it possible to write a new page, but also to spark debates on the course to take. Steve Clarke has restored cohesion and competitiveness to the selection, but the step remains high in such a tough competition. Regular qualification for the final phase is undeniable progress; It now remains to take a step forward to compete with the world elite.