Scotland manager Steve Clarke will take his side into their first FIFA World Cup 2026 group fixture with cautious optimism after two players missed a training session at the Atrium Health Training Centre in Charlotte, North Carolina — but neither is expected to be sidelined for Saturday's opening clash against Haiti at Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts.

Scott McTominay sat out the session on Thursday with a stomach complaint, while Dinamo Zagreb centre-back Scott McKenna was also absent managing a knock. Both are anticipated to return to full availability before the Group C opener kicks off at 2am UK time on Saturday.

Gilmour already ruled out

Scotland had already absorbed one fitness blow before arriving at their World Cup base in North Carolina. Midfielder Billy Gilmour was ruled out prior to the squad's departure, though Clarke retains a 26-man roster from which to choose his starting eleven.

Scotland — making their first World Cup appearance since France 1998 — are targeting three points against Haiti, who last appeared at a World Cup in 1974. A win in the Group C opener would set Clarke's side on course for what would be a historic first progression beyond the group stage.

Haiti without Pierre

Haiti head into the tournament with a late addition to their squad. Manager Sebastien Migne called up Colorado Springs Switchbacks defender Garven Metusala as a replacement for midfielder Leverton Pierre, who suffered an injury to his right adductor on the eve of the tournament. The 28-year-old, who plays in Portugal's second tier, will miss the entire World Cup.

Scotland's road through Group C

After facing Haiti, Scotland will return to Gillette Stadium to take on Morocco before rounding out the group stage against Brazil at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Haiti, meanwhile, face Brazil at Lincoln Financial Field and Morocco at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta to complete their group campaign.

The expanded 48-team format for FIFA World Cup 2026 offers Scotland a genuine pathway into the knockout rounds — but only if they deliver the result their supporters demand from the very first whistle.