Scotland skipper Andy Robertson had one to forget as Brazil swept to a commanding 3-0 win to claim top spot in Group C at the 2026 World Cup.
Hooked at Half-Time
The Tottenham Hotspur left-back — recruited on the cheap to bring title-winning experience to Ange Postecoglou’s setup — offered next to nothing against the Seleção. Bypassed easily on one occasion and devoid of his trademark attacking thrust down the left, Robertson was a passenger from the first whistle.
Boss Steve Clarke had seen enough at the break, hauling him off for Kieran Tierney — and the Arsenal loanee immediately brought the intensity and drive Scotland had been crying out for. Clarke may well be kicking himself for not starting Tierney, whose second-half showing delivered exactly the offensive spark the team needed. One report went as far as calling Robertson’s early exit “almost a blessing in disguise.”
Scotland Sweat on Progress
The Scots must now sit tight and see whether they advance as one of the eight best third-placed sides — a quirk born of the tournament’s new, divisive 48-team format.
A Worrying Advert for Spurs
For Robertson, this campaign has been anything but a ringing endorsement of his new club. Back-to-back underwhelming displays against Morocco and Brazil have turned heads, with the veteran looking a pale imitation of his former self.
The logic behind Tottenham’s pursuit was always questionable. He had visibly declined at Liverpool, and all early indicators suggest that slide is carrying over to north London.
Spurs brought him in to challenge the injury-prone Destiny Udogie for the left-back slot — yet Djed Spence, naturally a right-sided player, has looked considerably more convincing even when deployed on the left.
A Missed Opportunity
The smarter play would have been elevating academy prospect Souza as cover alongside Spence, giving the youngster meaningful first-team exposure. Instead, Souza is now reportedly heading out on loan, while Tottenham are left tied to an ageing deputy who is struggling to justify the faith placed in him.
