Scotland's hopes of reaching the World Cup knockout stages for the first time face an anxious wait following a 3-0 defeat to Brazil in Miami. The loss, coupled with a previous 1-0 defeat to Morocco, leaves Steve Clarke's side with a crucial third-place finish in Group C, meaning their progression hinges on the results of other group games.

The team's fate now rests on being one of the eight best third-placed teams to advance to the last 32. Qualification may not be confirmed until the final group matches conclude early Sunday morning BST. Scotland's goal difference of minus three, following the Brazil loss and the earlier defeat to Morocco after an opening win against Haiti, could prove decisive.

According to statisticians, Scotland currently has a 49.2% chance of progressing. The team will return to their base in Charlotte, North Carolina, to await the outcome of other matches. Captain Andy Robertson expressed dejection, telling BBC Scotland the "next couple of days is going to be horrible" as fans will be closely monitoring tables of third-placed teams.

Thousands of Scotland supporters, known as the Tartan Army, watched the Brazil match in a large fan zone in Miami. Many expressed disappointment and fatigue after the game. One fan, Dario, described the performance as the "worst I've ever seen Scotland play," adding that "we just didn't go for it."

However, some fans maintained a more positive outlook, acknowledging the significance of Scotland's return to the World Cup stage for the first time since 1998. Davie Beverage, from Dundee, who traveled with a friend, stated, "We're obviously disappointed but we've got this far. We're just glad to be here. We waited 28 years to watch the team in a good World Cup and we're here."

Bill Moultrie, who made the trip to the US with his son Gabriel, shared a long-standing support for the team. "I've followed Scotland for years and years and yes I thought we might win this one," he said, emphasizing that "it's not over."

The men's national team has a history of failing to advance from the group stages, having exited at this stage in eight previous World Cups and four European Championships. This tournament marks their 13th attempt at a major finals.

The team's journey began with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Haiti, secured by a John McGinn goal, which provided vital initial points. However, the subsequent back-to-back defeats have placed their aspirations on a precarious footing, leaving fans in a state of anxious anticipation.