Scotland stand on the verge of history at World Cup 2026, with a place in the round of 32 well within reach heading into their second group game against Morocco.

The Tartan Army have never previously made it out of the group stage at a World Cup — but that long-standing record is now under genuine threat.

The path forward

Steve Clarke's side opened the tournament with a 1-0 win over Haiti, John McGinn of Aston Villa netting the decisive goal. Three points from the opening round placed Scotland in an excellent position in Group C.

Morocco and Brazil played out a draw in the other first-round fixture, a result that has worked in Scotland's favour. A win over Morocco in Foxborough would secure qualification to the knockout stage outright, regardless of what happens in the final group game against Brazil.

Even a draw against Morocco is likely to be enough, given the tournament's rule that allows some third-place sides to advance. Scotland should not need to rely on that safety net, however — Clarke will want his squad going into the final game with their fate already sealed.

What the table means for Scotland's opponents

Should Scotland win and finish top of Group C, they would face the second-placed team from Group F in the round of 32. That slot is currently contested among Japan, Netherlands, and Tunisia, with Sweden holding an early advantage after winning their opening fixture.

A second-place finish for Scotland would see them meet the Group F winners — a position Sweden could well occupy as things stand.

The risk of defeat

A loss against Morocco would not eliminate Scotland, but it would make qualification significantly more complicated. If Brazil beat Haiti — as widely expected — and Morocco take all three points, Scotland's progression would hinge on results from other groups, specifically on how the remaining third-place teams perform.

Brazil were below their best against Morocco in the opening round, yet the Seleção's firepower and defensive quality mean Scotland will be eager to secure their place before that final 11pm UK kick-off in Miami.