Former Scotland midfielder Charlie Adam has singled out Ben Gannon-Doak as the player most capable of causing Brazil problems when the two sides meet in Miami in a decisive FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage fixture.

Scotland head into the match with three points from their opening two games — a 1-0 victory over Haiti followed by a 1-0 defeat against Morocco. A draw tonight would be enough to secure a place in the last 32.

Pace to stretch the Brazilians

Speaking to Freebets.com, Adam was emphatic about Gannon-Doak's importance to Steve Clarke's side. "We can't concede again after 70 seconds," he said. "We need to start the game better and give ourselves a platform and an organisational structure to build into the game. Second half against Morocco we were much better — we managed to progress."

"That's why I believe Ben Gannon-Doak will start — he gives us that electric pace in the wide areas, he gets us up the pitch, and provides a threat in behind," Adam added. "I think they were a wee bit cautious with him against Morocco — not playing a lot this year, back-to-back games quite quickly — but they've looked after him with an eye on that Brazil game, and that's really important for us. His speed and power to stretch the Brazilians and be a threat on the counterattack will be a huge asset."

Senior players must step up

Adam also highlighted the roles of Lawrence Shankland and the experienced core of the squad. "Lawrence Shankland will play — he allows us to be a bit more solid in terms of link play and hold-up. Che Adams' best attribute is running behind. If we get Shankland coming short and we can get runners, maybe Findlay Curtis on one side or one of the experienced players like John McGinn and Scott McTominay, we could have some success. We have to be a threat with the ball as well and try to be better with it."

Brazil's dangers

The former Liverpool man also outlined the threat Scotland will face, pointing specifically to Brazil's midfield trio of Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, and Lucas Paquetá. Up front, he warned that Vinicius Júnior, Matheus Cunha, Gabriel Martinelli, and Endrick give Brazil the firepower to hurt any opponent.

"They're probably not firing as well as everybody thought, but they are top of the group with four points," Adam noted. "For these top nations, it's about getting through the first phase and then seeing where the rest goes — and I only expect this Brazilian team to get better as the World Cup goes on."

"We have to make an impact on them like Morocco did. We can't just sit in and defend — we need to put them under pressure and hopefully get a bit of luck, maybe a set play or a counterattack opportunity."

The Tartan Army steals the show

Adam reserved special praise for the Scotland supporters who have made a powerful impression on American hosts and local communities alike. "We have the best fans in the world, and that's plain to see. The Tartan Army have gone into local charities, churches, and donated money to different places — as a former player and as a supporter, that's real pride."

"The Brazilians and the Scotland fans will mix very well — they both enjoy a party, and it'll be an amazing atmosphere tonight," he concluded.