Scotland Fans Gather in Miami Ahead of World Cup Match Against Brazil

Thousands of Scotland supporters have gathered in Miami for the national team's World Cup group match against Brazil. The game kicks off at 23:00 BST and will be shown live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Fans at South Beach gathered ahead of the match, which carries major implications for Scotland's progression.

Stevie Parker from Larbert said the team is on the brink of history and that a result could mark the perfect end to the Tartan Army's long trip. Brian Guthrie from Inverness said he has tracked qualification scenarios on spreadsheets each day and phoned in sick to attend the match. He added that a positive outcome could allow travel to Mexico City for the next stage.

Ewen MacDonald from Machrihanish marked his 44th birthday in Miami on Tuesday. He recalled watching Scotland's 3-0 defeat to Morocco on his 16th birthday in 1998, which ended the team's campaign that year, and said a win against Brazil would fulfill a long-held wish. Steve Clarke's side sits on three points after two group games.

A victory would guarantee progression while a draw would leave qualification almost certain. A defeat would require favorable results elsewhere, with final confirmation possibly delayed until all group matches conclude on 27 June. Back in Scotland, the OVO Hydro in Glasgow and other venues will screen the match on large screens.

Nearly all Scottish councils have extended licensing hours for pubs and clubs, and the Scottish Beer and Pub Association estimates the group games will bring an extra £7 million to the sector.