The stakes couldn't be any higher for Scotland as they gear-up for their hugely-anticipated World Cup clash with Brazil later this evening.
Steve Clarke and his side head into the clash in Miami knowing a point or more would all but guarantee them of a spot in the knockout rounds of the competition for the first time in history.
Defeat however would leave their destiny out of their own hands.
Does Clarke throw caution to the wind in an attempt to claim the scalp of one of the true football super-powers, or does he take a more calculated approach to try and protect the Tartan Army's, at present, handsome position in the third-place table?
As we know, eight of the 12 nation that finish third in their respective group will advance to the last 32, and at the time of writing, Scotland sit second in that list, behind Sweden, and in a strong position, which reflects in their price of 4/11 to be playing knockout World Cup football next week.
Defeat in itself tonight wouldn't be too detrimental to their hopes, but should their goal difference take a significant hit, then that could spell danger for the Scots, who are 2/1 to be eliminated at this stage.
According to Opta, a loss by a one goal margin against Brazil would leave them with a 95 percent chance of advancing, a two-goal defeat would leave them at 63 percent whilst a three goal defeat offers them a 42 percent chance.
Anything more than that, and the Tartan Army would likely be heading back home on Sunday, once their fate is officially known at the culmination of the group stages.
Scotland's odds to qualify for the last 32
- Scotland 'To Qualify' for the Knockout Rounds - 4/11
- Scotland 'Not To Qualify' for the Knockout Rounds - 2/1
Odds displayed in the above article were correct at time of writing and are subject to change or withdrawal at any time.
Check out the latest World Cup betting on site.
