Scotland's World Cup return has finally arrived, and Steve Clarke's team is ready to make the most of it. The Scots face a must-win opener against Haiti in their first match in 28 years, and Clarke has been preparing his players for the challenge ahead.
Clarke has been praised for his ability to keep his emotions in check, but he's also shown a more vulnerable side when it matters, as seen in his address to the team before the Denmark game at Hampden in November. The Scots have been working hard to prepare for the tournament, with a focus on analysis, match strategy, and coping with the heat and humidity.
The history of Scottish football is loaded with talented players who never got the chance to play at a World Cup, including legends like John Greig, Tommy Gemmell, and Billy McNeill. But Clarke's team is determined to make the most of their opportunity, and they've been relaxed but focused in their preparations in Charlotte this week.
Captain Andy Robertson has referenced the team's mantra of giving it a rattle and not dying wondering about what might have been if they'd been more brave. Lady Luck has been on their side in qualifying, and they're hoping to carry that momentum into the tournament.