Scotland remain confident of reaching the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in their history despite suffering a narrow defeat to Morocco in their second Group C match.
A second-minute strike from Morocco`s Ismael Saibari proved enough to separate the two sides at Gillette Stadium, leaving Scotland with three points from two matches and setting up a decisive showdown against Brazil.
The result strengthened Morocco`s position in the group, but Scotland`s players insisted their World Cup ambitions remain firmly alive heading into the final round of fixtures.
Midfielder John McGinn said the squad had shown they can compete against some of the world`s strongest teams and believes Scotland still have everything to play for.
Scotland entered the match on the back of a victory over Haiti and responded positively after conceding the tournament`s earliest goal so far.
Despite creating pressure and showing determination throughout the contest, they were unable to find an equaliser against a disciplined Moroccan side.
McGinn praised his teammates` resilience and fighting spirit, describing the squad as a group that never stops competing regardless of the challenge.
The Aston Villa midfielder acknowledged that Brazil will present a different test but said Scotland are fully focused on producing the performance needed to secure qualification.
Midfielder Lewis Ferguson also felt Scotland`s display deserved more, saying the team reacted well after the early setback and remained competitive throughout the match.
Head coach Steve Clarke echoed the players` optimism, highlighting the character his squad has shown over the years.
While disappointed by the result, he stressed that Scotland still have an opportunity to achieve something no previous national team has managed at a major tournament.
Scotland will now travel to Miami for their final group-stage encounter against Brazil, knowing a positive result could secure a historic place in the last 32.
The match will also mark Scotland`s fifth World Cup meeting with the five-time champions, adding further significance to a fixture that could become one of the most important in the nation`s football history.
With qualification still within reach, Scotland are determined to keep their World Cup dream alive against one of football`s biggest powers.
