Scotland on 'brink of history' ahead of Brazil World Cup tie

<p>That campaign also featured a defeat to Brazil, the side Scotland face later.</p>

<p>The parallels have not been lost on Ewen.</p>

<p>Scotland were beaten by Morocco on 23 June in 1998, and again last weekend.</p>

<p>But with Brazil next up, Ewen hopes this Scotland side can succeed where their predecessors fell short and finally change the script.</p>

<p>"It could be one of the best days of my life. I just can't wait," he said.</p>

<p>"It's my birthday. On my 16th birthday, I watched Scotland lose 3-0 to Morocco and get put out.</p>

<p>"I'd love to see Scotland win at a World Cup. It would make my birthday and all my dreams come true."</p>

<p>Back home, you will be able to <a href="/programmes/m002y4kc" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">watch the game live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer</a>. Kick-off in Miami Stadium is at 23:00 BST.</p>

<p>A number of large music venues, like the OVO Hydro in Glasgow, will be showing the game on large screens.</p>

<p>Scores of smaller venues - like tennis and rugby clubs - are also set to host watch parties.</p>

<p>Extensions to licensing rules have been approved by nearly all Scottish councils, allowing pubs and clubs to stay open to show the games beyond normal closing times.</p>

<p>The Scottish Beer and Pub Association has estimated that Scotland's group games could generate an additional £7m for pubs and bars.</p>

<h2>Will Scotland qualify for the next round?</h2>

<p>Steve Clarke's team currently sit on three points after the first two group games.</p>

<p>A win over Brazil would guarantee a place in the next round, while a draw would all but secure qualification for the first time in Scotland's history.</p>

<p>A defeat would not end the team's chances, but they will then be reliant on results in the other group matches going their way.</p>

<p>Fans will then be glued to <a href="/sport/football/world-cup/table" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">the table showing the best third-placed teams</a>, hoping that Scotland can remain among the top eight sides who will progress.</p>

<p>They might have to wait until all the group games finish on 27 June to know if Scotland are through - before facing a scramble to get to Boston, New Jersey or Mexico City for a match in the last 32.</p>

<h2>Related topics</h2>

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Guardian Sport · Jun 24

Guardian Sport · Jun 24

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