2026 World Cup: Steve Clarke and Scotland ready to challenge Haiti at the opening
By OnzeActu · · 2 min read
Scotland returns to the World Cup after a 28-year absence. His coach, Steve Clarke, could renew an already successful offensive 4-4-2 against Haiti for their opening match in Boston. The attacks will likely feature the signatures of Lawrence Shankland and Che Adams, while choices remain to be made in defense and midfield.
Steve Clarke is preparing a historic line-up: the first Scottish men's team to compete in a World Cup for 28 years. With encouraging performances against Curaçao and Bolivia during the preparation matches, the Scots should continue a dynamic 4-4-2 system against Haiti. This formation, which has allowed two consecutive successes with four goals scored each time, seems natural for a good start to the tournament in Boston.
The places in attack seem reserved for Lawrence Shankland and Che Adams, whose complicity during the last match seduced the Scottish public. In midfield, Ryan Christie and Lewis Ferguson will undoubtedly compete for place alongside other executives like John McGinn (if his condition allows). Among the defenders, Andy Robertson and Aaron Hickey seem certain to occupy the full-back positions. On the other hand, the central hinge remains uncertain, with Scott McKenna, John Souttar, Grant Hanley and Jack Hendry all having had playing time recently.
As goalkeeper, Angus Gunn, who played the entire last friendly match, should keep his cage. The match against Haiti is crucial: three points and a good goal difference could be enough to qualify for the knockout phase. Haiti, although the lowest ranked nation in the group, showed their qualities during their qualifying campaign and their impressive 4-0 victory against New Zealand in preparation for the World Cup.
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Aware of the stakes, and with the fervent support of the Tartan Army, the Scots will undoubtedly favor an offensive approach, avoiding the hesitations which have already cost them dearly during previous important meetings. The desire is clear: attack, dominate, and ideally launch this World Cup with a convincing success.
2026 World Cup: Haiti vs Scotland Sunday June 14 (02:00 BST) Boston Stadium, United States
Follow the match live on BBC iPlayer, get commentary on BBC Sounds and updates on the BBC Sport website and app.