Steve Clarke entered the Qatar tournament convinced his 4‑4‑2 system would translate from friendlies into World Cup success. Scotland rattled off eight goals against Curacao and Bolivia, then reproduced the shape against Haiti, winning 1‑0 despite a lower xG (1.05 vs 1.21). John Mc Ginn’s deflected strike settled the match while strikers Lawrence Shankland and Che Adams remained peripheral in June.

Against Morocco, Clarke reinforced the midfield, dropping Shankland and inserting Lyndon Dykes for a struggling Adams, who logged just 11 touches before exiting. Scotland produced no shots on target, yet Jack Hendry’s pace and positioning kept the scoreline respectable after Ismael Saibari’s early goal. Ben Gannon‑Doak’s late burst offered a glimpse of the dynamism Clarke may need versus Brazil for the team.

Defensive solidity will dictate Scotland’s fate; after conceding within 70 seconds, the back four limited Morocco to few clear chances, with Hendry’s block on a second Saibari attempt standing out. Clarke praised the squad’s resilience, insisting the same grit must carry them into the Brazil clash. Steve Clarke will likely retain the 4‑4‑2, hoping Jack Hendry continues his commanding performances on the night.