Lewis Ferguson arrived in Miami after a steady rise from Aberdeen to Bologna captain in Serie A. Four seasons in Italy and a Coppa Italia trophy gave him the experience to step into Steve Clarke's side when Billy Gilmour went down. In the Morocco friendly Ferguson logged 76 passes, more than double the next highest tally, and broke the African line 15 times, the most of any Scot.

His work‑rate and defensive discipline have become Scotland's backbone. The former Rangers youth, whose father Derek earned two caps, described the role as "dirty work" – tackling, duelling and shielding Mc Tominay. While his holding duties limit forward thrust, Ferguson’s energy allowed Kenny Mc Lean to roam later in the match, hinting at a possible tactical tweak against Brazil.

Former international Leanne Crichton noted that Ferguson’s strengths are being curbed by the deeper position, but praised his consistency across the tournament. With Scotland sitting on three points, a point against Brazil could secure progression, and Ferguson’s reliability will be central to any such outcome.