History beckons as all Scotland prepares for our biggest ever football match

At 11pm today, Scotland’s World Cup game against Brazil will begin. Over the following 90 or so minutes, what is arguably the most important sporting contest in this country’s history will play out. Virtually the entire nation – from the fans in the stadium and in pubs to teenagers given special permission to stay up late at home – will be on tenterhooks.

Scotland’s men’s team has never qualified from the group stage of a World Cup. To do so would be a historic achievement – one that eluded stars like Denis Law, Kenny Dalglish and Gordon Strachan. That the game is against Brazil – one of the best teams in the world, a country with a passion for the game every bit as strong as Scotland’s, and the friendliest of international opponents – makes the occasion all the more special.

The wonderful Tartan Army, who have been winning over Americans with their friendly, fun-loving attitude, as we knew they would, have contributed a vast amount to the World Cup atmosphere, to the extent that many in the US and other parts of the world will be hoping Scotland progress.

READ MORE: The Scotland World Cup tactics available to quell Brazil as Steve Clarke battles risk v reward

Players celebrate after John McGinn scored the winning goal in Scotland's opening World Cup match against Haiti (Picture: Justin Setterfield) | Getty Images

Nation given huge lift

As ambassadors for their country, they have had a tangible effect on relations with many countries around the world – even helping to establish overseas business links – and there are now expectations of an influx of American tourists to this country. If Scotland manage to qualify, their good work, for both Scotland and the World Cup as a whole, will continue.

Whatever happens on the field, whether Scotland progress or not, the team and the fans can hold their heads high. They have already created memories which will last a lifetime on both sides of the Atlantic.

But history beckons. In Steve Clarke and his players, we trust. They have already given the nation a huge lift by qualifying for the tournament in marvellous, dramatic style and we have faith. The Miracle of Miami can happen.