Scotland will attempt to make World Cup history when they tackle Morocco in a hugely-anticipated World Cup group stage encounter later this evening.
John McGinn's strike proved to be the difference in the Tartan Army's opener with Haiti at the weekend, and they head into tonight's clash knowing that a point or more against the Africans would likely seal them a first ever spot in the knockout rounds.
Boss Steve Clarke opted to go for the jugular against Haiti, naming a surprisingly attack-minded line-up. However, he will likely revert to his more tried and trusted wing-back system as he attempts to thwart an impressive Morocco side that held Brazil to a 1-1 draw in their curtain-raiser.
Key defender Scott McKenna is expected to be absent once more after missing the win over Haiti with a hamstring issue, although there are hopes that the 29-year-old will be fit for next week's final World Cup group encounter with Carlo Ancelotti's men.
Should Clarke, as expected, switch his formation, then it would likely mean Ben Gannon-Doak would drop down to the bench to accommodate an additional defender.
Former Arsenal man Kieran Tierney would be the likely candidate to slot in on the right hand-side of the three central defenders along with Jack Hendry and Grant Hanley, both of whom started against Haiti.
Aaron Hickey is the natural starter at right wing-back with Andy Robertson occupying the same berth on the left, with a midfield three made up of skipper McGinn, Lewis Ferguson and Napoli powerhouse Scott McTominay.
With Morocco likely to have far more of the ball than Haiti did last time out, Clarke could be inclined to start the more industrious Lyndon Dykes at the expense of new Rangers signing Lawrence Shankland alongside the experienced, and equally as tireless, Che Adams.
Scotland v Morocco match info
Match | Scotland v Morocco |
Competition | World Cup |
Venue | Boston Stadium |
Date | Friday 19th June |
Kick-off time | 23:00 (BST) |
Odds |
Predicted Scotland XI
Angus Gunn; Jack Hendry, Grant Hanley, Kieran Tierney; Aaron Hickey, Scott McTominay, Lewis Ferguson, John McGinn, Andy Robertson; Lyndon Dykes, Che Adams.
