NEW YORK, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Following a narrow 1-0 win over Haiti in its World Cup opener, Scotland faces Morocco in Boston on Friday, knowing that a point will almost certainly be enough to secure qualification to the tournament's knockout stage for the first time in its history.
The Scottish side is built around left-back and captain Andy Robertson, with John McGinn and Scott McTominay serving as key figures in midfield. It has not escaped anyone's attention that a 3-0 defeat to Morocco 28 years ago denied Scotland the chance to progress to the last 16 in France, Scotland's most recent World Cup appearance.
Speaking to the press, Robertson insisted that he does not see Friday's match as revenge for that defeat 28 years ago, saying he was "only four years old" at the time. He acknowledged, however, that there is pressure on the team to reach the knockout stage for the first time ever.
"I don't think any of the lads or the coaching staff and backroom staff have shied away from it," said Robertson.
"We want to be the first team to be able to do that for our country. And it's obviously a nice feeling to try and do that," he continued.
Morocco, who reached the semifinals at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, impressed with a 1-1 draw against Brazil in its opening match.
"We know how difficult it's going to be. We're now playing against one of the best teams in the world. But we also believe that if we perform to our maximum, then we can make it difficult for anyone. I think we've proven that over the years," he said.
Robertson also commented that it would be a mistake for his side to play for a draw. "Our aim is to win the game, and their plan is to win the game," the defender added. ■
