Scotland v Belarus 2026 FIFA World Cup, WM, Weltmeisterschaft, Fussball Qualifier 12/10/2025. Group C Andy Robertson of Scotland during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier, Scotland vs Belarus, The National Stadium, Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland, 12/10/2025. Hampden Park The National Stadium Glasgow Scotland Editorial use only , Copyright: xColinxPoultneyx PSI-23023-0087
Scottish football supporters are furious following a chastening 3-0 defeat to Brazil that has left the team’s World Cup campaign hanging by a thread.
The heavy loss means Scotland are now relying on a series of unlikely results to secure a place among the best third-placed finishers and reach the last 32.
Steve Clarke signed a four-year contract extension until 2030 before the tournament began, and across nine games over three campaigns, Scotland have managed only one win.
Clarke is under enormous pressure over his team selection, tactical approach, and his manner with journalists following the Brazil defeat.
Sandy Anderson, Hawkhead, said: “I am absolutely raging with Steve Clarke. I have never been a fan but I played along on the basis that this time he would get it right.”
Anderson added: “My wee 90-year-old granny lives next door and I watched it with her as she refused to miss the big game, she was absolutely raging with the way Clarke spoke to the reporter.”
Clarke’s substitutions in the closing stages also drew fierce criticism from supporters desperate to see Scotland chase the game.
Peter Lyons, Blantyre, said: “So, we need a goal; to cut the deficit and what does Clarke do. He brings on Christie and Ralston…oh my goodness…seriously? Clueless does not even cover it.”
Scott McTominay’s performances across the group stage failed to meet expectations, with supporters noting the Manchester City midfielder struggled throughout the tournament.
Peter Cooperwhite said: “Scott McTominay in a whole didn’t have the world cup we hoped for — one goal again could be our demise, we played in earnest to get a goal, Brazil played for fun, that’s the difference.”
The famous Tartan Army travelled in huge numbers to the United States, generating enormous noise, but many fans feel their support deserves far better performances on the pitch.
William Masson, Aboyne, said: “The squad and coaching staff are always just happy to be there, seemingly never willing to risk achieving something.”
Even captain John McGinn was not immune from criticism, with one supporter producing a particularly cutting comparison to make their point.
Danny Gallagher, Crosshill, said: “Edinburgh Zoo named their new penguin after John McGinn. Scotland might have done better playing it against Brazil than its namesake.”
Jim Smith, London, directed frustration at the players themselves for failing to challenge Clarke’s leadership from within the dressing room.
Jim Smith said: “There is no way Clarke could ever be manager of Napoli, Liverpool, or Aston Villa — so why are our players not telling him to do a boost? Let’s hope the blazers have enough about them to leave him in America, he’s not fit for purpose.”
Richard Wharton, Carlisle, summed up the cold statistical reality of a group stage campaign that has produced precious little going forward.
Wharton said: “Only one solitary goal in three games tells the story,” a damning verdict that few supporters would argue against as Scotland prepare for an early exit.
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