Scotland's World Cup campaign got off to a nervy start with a 1-0 win over Haiti, but the team's approach to their next two matches against Morocco and Brazil will be crucial in determining their progress. Despite the slender victory, Scotland have taken the top spot in Group C, but they will need to improve significantly to outmanoeuvre their more experienced opponents.
Former Scotland forward James McFadden believes the team's victory is a significant milestone, saying, 'It was a must-win in terms of hopes and aspirations of getting out of the group.' He added that the team's ability to progress to the knockout stages will hinge on their performance in the next two matches.
The team's coaching staff may adopt a more defensive approach to secure progress, with former Scotland captain Scott Brown suggesting that midfield player Ryan Christie could start in both of the remaining Group C matches. Brown also expects a lone striker to be preferred, with Lyndon Dykes being touted as the most likely candidate for the role.
Others, including former Scotland winger Pat Nevin, believe that a change in system is needed to combat the attacking prowess of Morocco and Brazil. Nevin suggests that a back three would be more effective against such opponents.
The team's performance against Haiti has raised questions about their ability to score goals, but they are just one good performance away from making history by progressing to the knockout stages for the first time.