Joe Cole has joked that Scotland has been "stitched up" by FIFA's scheduling for its World Cup clash against Brazil, warning Steve Clarke's players face the hardest game of the tournament
12:55, 24 Jun 2026
Andy Robertson and Scotland will continue their World Cup campaign against Brazil
Andy Robertson and Scotland will continue their World Cup campaign against Brazil(Image: Getty Images)
Former Liverpool star Joe Cole joked that Scotland has been "stitched up" by the scheduling of its crucial Group C fixture against Brazil, which sees the Scots take to the pitch in Miami's sweltering conditions on Wednesday.
Cole reckons it plays straight into Brazil's hands as Steve Clarke's players — captained by former Liverpool star Andy Robertson — look to book their place in the knockout rounds.
The Tartan Army triumphed over Haiti in their opener before succumbing to Morocco in their second outing. A draw with Brazil would likely propel Scotland into the final 32, reaching the four points needed to guarantee a best third-place finish.
A win would undoubtedly secure the nation's progression, while even a narrow loss might suffice should other results fall in favor, allowing Scotland to slip through as one of the eight fortunate third-place qualifiers.
Cole doesn't reckon it'll be straightforward for Scotland and has branded it the toughest encounter of the competition. Temperatures are forecast to feel close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit at kick-off, with the intensity on the pitch potentially pushing that even higher.
The former England and Chelsea star believes Scotland have "no chance" against the caliber of Raphinha and Gabriel. He's convinced Brazil will cope far better with the conditions.
Ex-Liverpool star Joe Cole has offered his opinion
Ex-Liverpool star Joe Cole has offered his opinion(Image: Getty Images)
"I think FIFA have stitched them up here. It's a 5pm kick-off in Miami against Brazil," he said jokingly. "It's the hardest game of the tournament.
"I think they have got no chance, I have played in that heat in the height of summer, and they are going to need at least six or seven hydration breaks to see them through the first half. It's second nature for the Brazilians."
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti is nonetheless bracing himself for a stern test.
The Selecao shared the spoils with Morocco in their opening fixture before convincingly seeing off Haiti, and will be aiming to finish top of the group.
"It will be a difficult game. Scotland has quality, they are fighters, they are well organized," ex-AC Milan boss Ancelotti said.
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"They have good players, [Scott] McTominay, [John] McGinn that are experienced players. Easy games at the World Cup were finished a long time ago. We are ready to play a difficult game.
"They are a strong team. They have a very clear strategy."
"It's a very well-organized team. Usually play 4-4-2, long balls. They will try and do a lot of crossing. We need to control the match in that sense."