Head coach Steve Clarke has confirmed that Scotland have formulated a contingency plan to handle any weather-related stoppages during their decisive Group C clash with Brazil in Miami on Wednesday.

A draw would be enough to send Scotland through to the knockout rounds of a major tournament for the first time in the nation's history. However, thunderstorms are forecast for Miami, raising the possibility of interruptions similar to those that disrupted France's Group I match against Iraq in Philadelphia on Monday — a game suspended for two hours due to lightning in the surrounding area.

"I think so far we've probably been a little bit lucky with the weather," Clarke said. "Looking at the forecast, it's possible that there will be some rain disruptions. We have a strategy in mind on how to deal with it."

Clarke noted that the rules require a 30-minute window after each lightning strike before play can resume. "They're always doing it off the last lightning strike. You've got to wait 30 minutes off the last lightning strike, so that can just roll on and roll on," he said. "If there is to be a delay, then hopefully it will be a short one, but we have an idea of what we'll do if it happens to us."

Clarke sets aside a lifelong love of Brazil

Clarke also confirmed that full-back Aaron Hickey will be absent through injury for the match. Setting aside personal sentiment, he admitted to a deep-rooted affection for the opposition — one he must now suppress.

"For me, as a coach, to be involved in a World Cup match against Brazil, one of the most iconic teams in the world… first memories of the World Cup for me were probably the 1970 Brazil team," Clarke said. "They were absolutely fantastic. They were great to see for a young boy growing up. And you grow up with that love of Brazil. But tomorrow night, we have to not love Brazil and love Scotland more."

Robertson calls for belief against Brazil's star-studded squad

Scotland captain Andy Robertson echoed his manager's determined tone, urging his teammates to believe they can compete against one of football's most talented squads.

"It's not about wanting to face Neymar or Vinicius Jr, Endrick or Martinelli," Robertson said. "I could go on and name every player in the Brazil squad because they have so much quality. Even when you look at the players they've left at home."

Robertson acknowledged that manager Carlo Ancelotti holds all the selection cards for Brazil, but insisted Scotland must focus on their own preparation. "It's up to [manager Carlo] Ancelotti who plays. We just need to prepare the best we can, but they have quality in every position — as well as the players coming on."

"We have to be as ready as we can be. We must come up with a game plan and put it in place to the best of our ability. They're blessed with so much talent, but we have to try and do the best for Scotland."